Tong Pass (潼关 tóng guān) was a strategic fortress on the Yellow River, guarding the northeastern approach to Chang’an. In 211, it was the site of major battles between Cao Cao and the coalition of western warlords led by Ma Chao and Han Sui. The pass’s location made it one of the most contested fortifications of the era.
Strategic importance
Mountain passes and battle sites were crucial to Three Kingdoms military strategy. Control of key passes meant control of supply lines and invasion routes. Many famous battles were fought at these locations, and their names became synonymous with military triumph or disaster.
References
- Chen Shou, Records of the Three Kingdoms (三国志)
- Luo Guanzhong, Romance of the Three Kingdoms (三国演义)
- de Crespigny, Rafe. A Biographical Dictionary of Later Han to the Three Kingdoms