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The Fall of Zhongshan (295 BCE) - Conquest by the State of Zhao
In 295 BCE, the small but strategically significant state of Zhongshan was conquered by the State of Zhao, marking a pivotal moment in the Warring States period (475-221 BCE) of ancient China. Zhongshan, a Di ethnic state (a non-Chinese people considered "barbarian" by the Zhou states), had long been a thorn in the side of its more powerful neighbors, particularly Zhao, Yan, and Qi.
Zhongshan had previously been conquered by Wei in 406 BCE but regained independence in 378 BCE. By the 4th century BCE, it had grown into a formidable state, even defeating Zhao in battle at times. However, its location—wedged between Zhao, Yan, and Qi—made it vulnerable.
Under King Wuling of Zhao (r. 325-299 BCE), the Zhao military underwent significant reforms, including the adoption of cavalry warfare inspired by northern nomadic tribes. His successor, King Huiwen of Zhao (r. 298-266 BCE), continued this aggressive expansionist policy.
By 296 BCE, Zhongshan was weakened by years of conflict. The final campaign was likely led by Zhao general Lian Po, who besieged and crushed Zhongshan's forces. In 295 BCE, the capital fell, and Zhongshan was annexed by Zhao, eliminating a long-standing rival.
While records from this period are fragmentary, the fall of Zhongshan demonstrates the ruthless geopolitics of the Warring States era, where survival depended on military strength and strategic alliances.
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