The Battle of Changping (長平之戰) is one of the most grandiose military campaigns in the history of the World. In fact, prior to the start of WWI, the battle of Changping held the record of being the largest (in terms of the size of forces involved) and the bloodiest (in terms of number of casualties) military engagement. Yet, it is relatively unknown in the West.
It took place around 260 BCE, during the Warring States period, in ancient China, ending a centuries-old conflict for dominance between the two strongest players: the State of Qin and the State of Zhao. The victory of the State of Qin paved the way for unification of the remaining Warring States under Qin’s domination. Thus, the Qin became China.
This victory, and the resulting supremacy of the State of Qin, gave the world such treasures as the Terracotta Army and the Great Wall of China.
Aside from these incredible consequences, the battle itself offers an unbelievably interesting story of military genius, on both sides of the conflict. This battle solidified the legendary reputations of military commanders, whose fame survived for more than 2,000 years: General Bai Qi and General Lian Po.
Lastly, this battle offers us the first large scale example of utilizing covert operations to conduct a sociological warfare against the weakest political and civilian points of the opposing society.
Given its prominent role in Chinese, as well as World history, I believe this topic is worthy of our focus. I hope you enjoy this episode, and thank you for watching the Most Intriguing Military Battles.
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