The Minister over the Masses (司徒 Sītú) was one of the Three Excellencies and a pillar of Han civil government. Alongside the Grand Commandant and the Minister of Works, he shared the highest ministerial rank and advised the emperor on policy.
Responsibilities
The Minister over the Masses oversaw civil administration, population and census matters, and aspects of ritual and education tied to the welfare of the people. In practice, his influence depended on the balance of power at court. In the late Han and Three Kingdoms, the post was often filled by loyal supporters of the dominant ruler or regent, including under the Cao family in Wei.
Notable holders
Many figures in the Records of the Three Kingdoms are recorded as having served as or been enfeoffed in connection with this office. The title remained part of the formal hierarchy of Wei, Shu, and Wu as they sought to present themselves as legitimate successors to Han government.