Lü Dai (simplified: 吕岱, traditional: 呂岱, pinyin: Lǚ Dài), courtesy name Dinggong (定公 Dìnggōng), was a general of Eastern Wu who served from the time of Sun Quan into the reign of Sun Liang. He campaigned against the Shanyue and in Jiao Province (交州) and held senior military posts. When Pan Zhang died in 234, Sun Quan assigned Pan Zhang’s troops to Lü Dai. He was still in service in his nineties and died in 256. Yu Fan once asked him to relay a remonstration to Sun Quan about sending envoys to Liaodong; Lü Dai refused. Wu Can campaigned with him against the Shanyue.
Biography
Career under Sun Quan
Lü Dai was from Guangling and joined Sun Quan in the early years. He took part in campaigns in the south and was appointed Inspector of Jiao Province, where he dealt with local leaders and extended Wu’s control. He was recalled and given other commands and was trusted for his experience and loyalty.
Later years and Pan Zhang’s troops
After Pan Zhang died in 234, Sun Quan gave Pan Zhang’s troops to Lü Dai. Lü Dai continued to serve under Sun Liang and was promoted to General of the Upper Army. He was known for his long service and frugal habits; he reportedly remained active into his nineties. He died in 256.
Legacy
Lü Dai is remembered as one of Wu’s most durable generals and as the man who took over Pan Zhang’s command. His campaigns in the south helped consolidate Wu’s hold on Jiao Province and the southern frontier.