Wei Qing

AncientGeneralChina-140 — -106

Han dynasty general who defeated the Xiongnu seven times.

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Quick Facts

Born

140 BCE

Died

106 BCE

Country

China

Era

Ancient

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)88

Political (20%)45

Influence (20%)57

Legacy (20%)52

Leadership (15%)71

Strategy (15%)72

Total Score60.6

Wei Qing — Complete Timeline

124 BC

Appointment as Grand GeneralPolitical Action◆ Major

Emperor Wu of Han appointed Wei Qing as Grand General, the highest military rank, after his victories against the Xiongnu. This made him the most powerful military commander in the Han empire.

AppointmentHan DynastyMilitary

Impact: nationalconstructive

121 BC

Battle of HexiWar◆ Major

Wei Qing and his nephew Huo Qubing led campaigns in the Hexi Corridor, defeating the Xiongnu and securing the region for the Han dynasty. This opened the Silk Road trade routes.

CampaignHan DynastyXiongnuSilk Road

Impact: regionalconstructive

119 BC

Battle of MobeiWar◆ Major

Wei Qing led a Han army deep into the Gobi Desert to engage the Xiongnu. He defeated the Xiongnu forces under Yizhixie Chanyu, killing or capturing over 19,000 enemy troops. This victory weakened the Xiongnu.

BattleHan DynastyXiongnu

Impact: regionalconstructive

106 BC

Death and LegacyOther

Wei Qing died in 106 BC. His seven victories against the Xiongnu had significantly expanded Han territory and secured the northern frontier. He was buried in a grand tomb near Emperor Wu's mausoleum.

DeathHan DynastyLegacy

Impact: national