Lü Ju (simplified: 吕据, traditional: 呂據, pinyin: Lǚ Jù), courtesy name Shiyi (世議 Shìyì), was the son of Lü Fan. He succeeded to his father’s marquisate (Marquis of Wanling) and served Eastern Wu as a general. He was promoted to General of Agile Cavalry (驃騎將軍). During the regency of Sun Lin (孫綝) under Sun Liang, Lü Ju was on campaign in the north; when Sun Lin staged a coup and deposed Sun Liang in favour of Sun Xiu, Lü Ju was recalled. He refused to submit to Sun Lin and was forced to commit suicide (or was executed) in 256. His death was one of the purges that accompanied Sun Lin’s takeover.
Biography
Succession and military career
Lü Ju inherited Lü Fan’s title and troops after his father’s death. He held military commands under Sun Quan and later under Sun Liang. He was made General of Agile Cavalry and campaigned against Wei.
Fall under Sun Lin
When Sun Jun died in 256, his cousin Sun Lin took power. Sun Lin deposed Sun Liang and installed Sun Xiu. Lü Ju was in the field; when he learned of the coup he turned back. Sun Lin ordered him to submit; Lü Ju refused and led his troops toward the capital. Sun Lin had him declared a rebel; Lü Ju was cornered or recalled and forced to commit suicide. His fate is often cited with other loyal officers who opposed Sun Lin.
Legacy
Lü Ju is remembered as Lü Fan’s son who rose to General of Agile Cavalry and who refused to accept Sun Lin’s coup and died for it.