Liu Cong (Han-Zhao)

Liu Cong (劉聰), also known as Zhao Zong, (died 318 CE) was the third emperor of the Xiongnu-led Han-Zhao dynasty during the Sixteen Kingdoms period of Chinese history. He reigned from 310 to 318 CE.

Liu Cong was the son of Liu Yuan, the founder of Han-Zhao. He distinguished himself early in his father's service as a capable general. After Liu Yuan's death, Liu Cong murdered his elder brother and designated heir, Liu He, to seize the throne.

His reign was marked by military expansion but also by internal instability and increasing cruelty. He captured the Jin Dynasty capital of Luoyang in 311, taking Emperor Huai of Jin prisoner and later executing him. This event, known as the Yongjia Disaster, marked a significant turning point in the decline of the Western Jin dynasty and a mass migration of Jin officials and populace south of the Yangtze River. He later captured Chang'an in 316, effectively ending the Western Jin.

Liu Cong was known for his decadent lifestyle, excessive drinking, and capricious behavior. He heavily favored his consorts, and his court was rife with corruption. In the later years of his reign, he delegated much power to his advisors and family members, some of whom proved treacherous.

His reign was characterized by a combination of military successes, particularly against the Jin, and internal problems arising from his own character flaws and the growing power of his officials.

After his death in 318, a succession struggle ensued, resulting in further instability within the Han-Zhao regime. His appointed heir, Liu Can, was quickly overthrown by Jin Zhun, leading to a massacre of the Liu clan. This internal strife significantly weakened Han-Zhao, paving the way for its eventual defeat by Shi Le's Later Zhao.