Xu Province (徐州) was a strategically important province located between the Yellow and Yangtze rivers. Covering parts of modern Jiangsu and Shandong provinces, it was the scene of intense fighting in the 190s as various warlords vied for control.
Historical significance
Xu Province was one of the thirteen provinces of the Han dynasty. Its location made it a crucial transportation hub, connecting northern and southern China. The province was agriculturally rich and densely populated, making it a valuable prize for any warlord.
Under Tao Qian
Tao Qian served as Governor of Xu Province from 188 to 194. He was known for his kindness and good governance. However, in 193, Cao Cao invaded Xu Province to avenge his father’s death, allegedly killed by Tao Qian’s subordinates. Cao Cao’s forces devastated the province, killing countless civilians.
Lü Bu’s takeover
In 194, while Cao Cao was campaigning in Xu Province, Zhang Miao and Chen Gong rebelled in Yan Province and invited Lü Bu to take control. Lü Bu seized Yan Province, forcing Cao Cao to withdraw from Xu Province. Later, Lü Bu also took control of Xu Province after Tao Qian’s death.
Liu Bei in Xu Province
Liu Bei first entered Xu Province in 194, sent by Tao Qian to help defend against Cao Cao. After Tao Qian’s death, Liu Bei became Governor of Xu Province. However, in 196, Lü Bu attacked and captured Liu Bei’s family, forcing Liu Bei to flee. Liu Bei later regained control of Xu Province briefly in 198 before Lü Bu defeated him again.
Battle of Xiapi
In 198, Cao Cao launched a campaign against Lü Bu in Xu Province. He besieged Lü Bu at Xiapi and flooded the city. Lü Bu’s subordinates betrayed him and surrendered to Cao Cao. Lü Bu was captured and executed, ending his rule over Xu Province.
Under Cao Wei
After Lü Bu’s defeat, Xu Province came under Cao Cao’s control and remained part of Cao Wei throughout the Three Kingdoms period. The province was rebuilt and developed, contributing resources to Wei’s war efforts.
Modern region
Today, the region of ancient Xu Province covers parts of Jiangsu and Shandong provinces. Major cities include Xuzhou, Linyi, and Huai’an. The area remains an important transportation hub and agricultural region.
References
- Chen Shou, Records of the Three Kingdoms (三国志)
- Fan Ye, Book of the Later Han (后汉书)
- Sima Guang, Zizhi Tongjian (资治通鉴)
- de Crespigny, Rafe. A Biographical Dictionary of Later Han to the Three Kingdoms