Battle of Dingtao (late Qin)
208 BCE · Dingtao (modern Dingtao, Shandong) · China · Ancient
Exploiting Xiang Liang's overconfidence after his string of victories, Zhang Han launched a night raid that crushed the Chu army; Xiang Liang was killed in battle
Belligerents
Qin
- Commanders
- Zhang Han
- Strength
- Main Qin army, size unknown
Chu (anti-Qin rebels)
- Commanders
- Xiang Liang
- Strength
- Size of the Chu army unknown
Background
After destroying several Qin units, Xiang Liang grew arrogant and careless, while Zhang Han secretly mustered his forces for a surprise attack.
Course of the battle
- Xiang Liang's string of victoriesXiang Liang led the Chu army to repeated victories over the Qin and gradually grew complacent and lax
- Zhang Han's night raidZhang Han mustered elite troops and launched a surprise night attack on the Chu camp
- Xiang Liang killed in battleCaught off guard, the Chu army collapsed, and Xiang Liang was killed in battle
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 208 BCE |
|---|---|
| Place | Dingtao (modern Dingtao, Shandong) |
| Result | Exploiting Xiang Liang's overconfidence after his string of victories, Zhang Han launched a night raid that crushed the Chu army; Xiang Liang was killed in battle |
| Winner | Qin |
| Casualties | Chu commander Xiang Liang was killed in battle, and the Chu army suffered heavy losses |
| Territorial change | The Qin army briefly turned the tide, then marched north to besiege Zhao, leading to the Battle of Julu |
Impact
The Qin army killed the Chu commander Xiang Liang, its last victory before the Battle of Julu; Xiang Yu's counterattack followed soon after.
See the world in 208 BCE on the map →