Shu Han

History

A state in southwestern China founded by Liu Bei, claiming legitimate succession to the Han dynasty - The Han Dynasty was the second great empire of China, founded by Liu Bang (Emperor Gaozu) after defeating Xiang Yu. It lasted for over 400 years and is considered a golden age in Chinese history. During this time, paper was invented, the Silk Road was opened for trade, and Confucianism became the official state philosophy. It was so influential that even today, the majority ethnic group in China calls themselves the 'Han' people.. Though the smallest and weakest of the three, it waged relentless Northern Expeditions under Zhuge Liang's leadership.

According to local folklore, the mountainous paths of Shu were so incredibly treacherous that even the legendary poet Li Bai later wrote 'the road to Shu is harder than climbing to heaven', a true testament to the natural fortress that protected the kingdom.