Belisarius vs Ma Chao

Belisarius led a Byzantine expedition to North Africa against the Vandal Kingdom. He defeated King Gelimer at the Battle of Ad Decimum and captured Carthage, restoring Roman control over the province after a century of Vandal rule.

Belisarius defended Rome against a siege by the Ostrogothic army under King Vitiges. Despite being outnumbered, he held the city for over a year using defensive tactics and sorties, until reinforcements arrived. This prolonged the war but preserved Byzantine control.

Belisarius captured the Ostrogothic capital of Ravenna through a combination of siege and deception. He accepted the surrender of King Vitiges and the Gothic nobility, effectively ending the first phase of the Gothic War and restoring Italy to the Empire.

Emperor Justinian recalled Belisarius from Italy due to political intrigues and suspicions of his ambition. Belisarius was stripped of his command and his wealth was confiscated, though he was later restored to favor. This ended his active role in the reconquest.

Ma Chao, allied with Qiang and Hu tribes, led a rebellion against Cao Cao in Liang Province. He captured the city of Chang'an and threatened Cao Cao's western flank, forcing Cao Cao to personally lead a campaign against him.

Cao Cao's army faced Ma Chao's coalition at Tong Pass. Ma Chao's cavalry repeatedly charged Cao Cao's forces, nearly killing Cao Cao himself. However, Cao Cao used a feint to cross the Yellow River and outflank Ma Chao, forcing him to retreat.

After his defeat by Cao Cao, Ma Chao fled to Hanzhong and sought refuge with the warlord Zhang Lu. Zhang Lu gave him command of troops but grew suspicious of him, leading Ma Chao to eventually leave and join Liu Bei.

Ma Chao surrendered to Liu Bei and was given command of troops. He played a key role in Liu Bei's conquest of Yi Province, and later was appointed General of the Vanguard. He was enfeoffed as Marquis of Taitai.