Zhong Hui

A strategist famed for his talent from youth; commanded the conquest of Shu and was executed for rebellion after Shu fell.

Life

Talented from youth

Zhong Hui, son of the Grand Tutor Zhong Yao, was known for his brilliance from boyhood. Trusted by Sima Zhao, he helped put down Zhuge Dan's rebellion and was compared to Zhang Liang.

Commanded the conquest of Shu

In 263 he, Deng Ai and Zhuge Xu advanced on Shu along separate routes, and his main force was held up by Jiang Wei at Jiange. After Deng Ai crossed secretly at Yinping and conquered Shu, Zhong Hui falsely accused him of rebellion and had him sent to Luoyang under escort.

Chaos in Chengdu

Zhong Hui then allied with the surrendered general Jiang Wei in Chengdu, attempting to make himself independent in Shu. In the first month of 264, the Wei troops mutinied, and both Zhong Hui and Jiang Wei were killed by the rioting soldiers; he was only 40.

Legacy

Zhong Hui was brilliant but ambitious, and his revolt and failure ended Cao Wei's conquest of Shu in internal turmoil.

Major works & achievements

• Commanded the conquest of Shu

Did you know? He was the son of the famous calligrapher Zhong Yao.

Key dates

• 257Helped put down Zhuge Dan
• 263Led the main army in the conquest of Shu
• 264Executed for rebellion in Chengdu