Yang Province (扬州) was one of the most important provinces during the Three Kingdoms period, covering the lower Yangtze River valley. The region formed the economic and political heartland of Eastern Wu, with its capital at Jianye.
Historical significance
Yang Province was established during the Han dynasty, encompassing the lower Yangtze region including modern Jiangsu, Anhui, and Zhejiang provinces. The area was agriculturally rich, with extensive rice paddies and waterways. The Yangtze River provided natural defences and transportation routes.
Under Sun Family Control
The Sun family gained control of Yang Province in the late 190s. Sun Ce conquered the region between 195 and 200, defeating local warlords and establishing Sun family authority. After Sun Ce’s death, his brother Sun Quan continued to consolidate power in Yang Province.
Battle of Red Cliffs
In 208, Yang Province became the staging ground for the Battle of Red Cliffs. Cao Cao launched a massive campaign to conquer the south, but the allied forces of Sun Quan and Liu Bei defeated him. This victory secured Sun Quan’s control of Yang Province and prevented Cao Cao from crossing the Yangtze.
Capital of Eastern Wu
In 229, Sun Quan declared himself emperor and established Eastern Wu with its capital at Jianye (modern Nanjing) in Yang Province. The city became a major political and cultural centre. Yang Province provided the population, agricultural wealth, and economic base that sustained the Wu kingdom.
Defence against Wei
Yang Province’s northern border with Cao Wei was heavily contested. The city of Hefei became a flashpoint, with multiple battles fought over its control. Zhang Liao’s defence of Hefei against Sun Quan’s forces became legendary. Despite Wu’s attempts, Hefei remained in Wei hands throughout the period.
Economic development
Under Eastern Wu, Yang Province saw significant economic development. Agriculture expanded, trade flourished along the Yangtze, and maritime connections were established with regions to the south. The population grew as refugees fled the wars in northern China.
Modern region
Today, the region of ancient Yang Province comprises Jiangsu, Anhui, and Zhejiang provinces. This area remains one of China’s most economically developed regions. Cities like Nanjing, Hangzhou, and Suzhou preserve historical sites from the Three Kingdoms period.
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