20324

2020

Romance of the Three Kingdoms

Sima Yi (179-251 AD) was a prominent strategist and politician during the late Eastern Han Dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history. He served under the Cao Wei regime, eventually becoming a pivotal figure in its consolidation and expansion.

Initially, Sima Yi was reluctant to serve Cao Cao, but Cao Cao, impressed by his abilities and wary of his ambition, compelled him into service. He quickly proved his worth, contributing significantly to Cao Wei's military successes and political stability through his strategic acumen and administrative skills.

Sima Yi is best known for his successful defense against Zhuge Liang's Northern Expeditions from Shu Han. His patient, defensive tactics earned him both respect and criticism. He refused to engage Zhuge Liang directly, preferring to prolong the campaigns and exhaust the Shu Han army, a strategy that ultimately proved effective.

Following Cao Rui's death, Sima Yi seized power through a coup d'état, effectively becoming the de facto ruler of Cao Wei. His actions laid the foundation for his grandson, Sima Yan, to eventually establish the Jin Dynasty, reunifying China and ending the Three Kingdoms period.