Sima Zhao

AncientGeneralChina211 — 265

Wei regent whose ambition was transparent to all who saw him.

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Quick Facts

Born

211

Died

265

Country

China

Era

Ancient

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)74

Political (20%)44

Influence (20%)53

Legacy (20%)50

Leadership (15%)68

Strategy (15%)58

Total Score55.8

Sima Zhao — Complete Timeline

257 AD

Sima Zhao's Suppression of Zhuge Dan's RebellionWar◆ Major

The Wei general Zhuge Dan rebelled in Shouchun against Sima Zhao's regency. Sima Zhao led a massive army to besiege the city. After a year-long siege, Shouchun fell, and Zhuge Dan was executed, solidifying Sima Zhao's control over Wei.

Rebellion SuppressionSiegeWei

Impact: national

260 AD

Sima Zhao's Assassination of Cao MaoPolitical Action

The Wei emperor Cao Mao attempted a coup against Sima Zhao but was killed by Sima Zhao's subordinate Jia Chong. Sima Zhao then installed Cao Huan as a puppet emperor, further demonstrating his control over the imperial court.

AssassinationCoupRegicide

Impact: nationaldestructive

263 AD

Sima Zhao's Conquest of Shu HanWar

Sima Zhao ordered a three-pronged invasion of Shu Han, led by Deng Ai, Zhong Hui, and Zhuge Xu. Deng Ai's surprise march through the Yinping mountains forced the surrender of Shu. This conquest eliminated the last major rival state and paved the way for the Jin dynasty.

ConquestShu HanUnification

Impact: national

265 AD

Sima Zhao's Posthumous Title as Emperor Wen of JinPolitical Action◆ Major

Sima Zhao died in 265 without formally usurping the throne. His son Sima Yan forced the abdication of Cao Huan and founded the Jin dynasty. Sima Zhao was posthumously honored as Emperor Wen of Jin, recognizing his role as the dynasty's founder.

Posthumous TitleDynasty FoundationJin

Impact: national