King Wen of Zhou

AncientEmperorChina-1152 — -1056

Patriarch of the Zhou dynasty, father of King Wu.

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Quick Facts

Born

1152 BCE

Died

1056 BCE

Country

China

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)38

Political (20%)72

Influence (20%)65

Legacy (20%)65

Leadership (15%)40

Strategy (15%)43

Total Score57.5

King Wen of Zhou — Complete Timeline

1100 BC

Development of Zhou StatePolitical Action◆ Major

King Wen of Zhou expanded the Zhou state's territory and influence in the Wei River valley. He cultivated alliances with neighboring tribes and prepared the foundation for the eventual overthrow of the Shang dynasty, though he died before achieving it.

Zhou DynastyState BuildingPreparation

Impact: regionalconstructive

Imprisonment by King Zhou of ShangPolitical Action

King Wen was imprisoned by the last Shang ruler, King Zhou, at Youli. During his captivity, he is traditionally said to have studied the I Ching (Book of Changes) and expanded its hexagrams. He was later released after his followers paid tribute.

Shang DynastyImprisonmentI Ching

tragic