Solon vs Zhang Liang

Solon canceled all outstanding debts and freed Athenians enslaved for debt. He abolished debt bondage and prohibited using personal freedom as collateral for loans, addressing the severe economic crisis and social unrest caused by the exploitation of the poor by the wealthy.

Solon divided Athenian citizens into four property classes (pentakosiomedimnoi, hippeis, zeugitai, thetes) determining political rights. He created the Council of 400 and the popular courts (Heliaia), opening political participation to a broader segment of the population while retaining aristocratic elements.

Solon reformed Athenian coinage and weights and measures, standardizing them to facilitate trade. He encouraged the cultivation of olives and the export of olive oil, while banning the export of grain to ensure local food supply, stimulating the Athenian economy.

Solon introduced laws regulating marriage, inheritance, and family property. He allowed childless men to adopt heirs and restricted the dowry system, aiming to protect family estates and prevent the concentration of wealth in a few hands.

Zhang Liang attempted to assassinate Qin Shi Huang at Bolangsha. He recruited a strongman to hurl a heavy iron mallet at the emperor's carriage, but it struck the decoy carriage. Zhang Liang escaped and went into hiding, gaining fame for his daring act.

Zhang Liang met Liu Bang, future founder of the Han dynasty, and became his chief strategist. He advised Liu Bang on military tactics and political alliances, helping him navigate the chaotic period after the fall of the Qin dynasty.

At the Feast at Hongmen, Zhang Liang advised Liu Bang to act submissively toward Xiang Yu, preventing an immediate attack. This diplomatic maneuver allowed Liu Bang to survive a deadly trap and later consolidate power against Xiang Yu.

Zhang Liang devised the strategy that led to the decisive Han victory at Gaixia. His plan involved surrounding Xiang Yu's forces and using psychological warfare, including songs from Chu to demoralize the enemy. Xiang Yu committed suicide, ending the Chu-Han Contention.

After the Han dynasty was established, Zhang Liang retired from active politics, claiming illness and a desire to pursue Daoist immortality practices. He refused high offices, avoiding the purges that eliminated many other founding contributors.