This tumultuous, gripping tale begins in 184 A.D., near the end of the Han Dynasty. The Empire, threatened by corruption, regional warlords, and the Yellow Scarves revolt, was beginning to splinter into three rival kingdoms.

To the north lay the Wei kingdom, led by the cunning, ruthless, and ingenious Cao Cao. As regent, he ruled by "protecting" the child Emperor and keeping him subservient to his demands.

To the south lay the Wu kingdom, led by the wise Sun Quan. He fostered many talented advisors and generals, including the brilliant Zhou Yu.

To the west lay the Shu kingdom, ruled by the noble and virtuous Liu Bei, a distant relative of the Emperor. Liu Bei was advised by a Taoist sage and master strategist, Kongming, who could predict an enemy's actions years in advance. Liu Bei's strength was also bolstered by his two oath-brothers, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu. Zhang Fei was the fiercest warrior in all of China, and Guan Yu is worshiped to this day as one of the true heroes of the realm.

Countless soldiers fought during this turbulent period of dynastic change. Over 800,000 died at the pivotal battle of Red Cliffs alone.

The real events and famous people of the Three Kingdoms period have fascinated millions for centuries and have formed the basis of countless plays, operas, and folk tales throughout Asia. The story also illuminates the nature of power, the importance of diplomacy, and the intricacies of war. To understand the Three Kingdoms story is to begin to understand China.

Story Menu

• Back to Introduction
• The Yellow Scarves Rebellion
• A Chronology