Yang Su
Led the navy down the Yangtze in the conquest of Chen and later helped enthrone Emperor Yang of Sui.
Life
Navy Conquers Chen
Yang Su came from the Yang clan of Hongnong and was already known for his courage and strategy under the Northern Zhou. In the 589 conquest of Chen, he led the navy from Yong'an down the Yangtze, crushed the Chen army and advanced straight to Hankou.
Striking the Turks in the North
He then put down rebellions throughout Jiangnan and repeatedly crushed the Turks, becoming known for the harshness of his military discipline. He oversaw the construction of the Renshou Palace and later took part in building the Eastern Capital.
Enthroned Emperor Yang
He befriended Yang Guang and helped him seize the position of crown prince. When Emperor Wen of Sui died in 604 he supported Yang Guang's accession, and he also suppressed the rebellion of Yang Liang, Prince of Han. He died in 606.
Legacy
Yang Su was the Sui dynasty's most decorated general, but because he helped put Emperor Yang of Sui on the throne, he is also seen as one of those who pushed the Sui toward decline.
Major works & achievements
- Led the navy to conquer Chen
- Crushed the Turks
Did you know? In the story of "the broken mirror made whole again," the powerful minister who returned Princess Lechang to her former husband was Yang Su.
Key dates
- 589Led the navy to conquer Chen
- 590Suppressed the rebellion in Jiangnan
- 600Helped Yang Guang seize the succession
- 604Suppressed Yang Liang's rebellion
- 606Died