Southern Liang (Sixteen Kingdoms)

The Southern Liang (南涼; pinyin: Nán Liáng) was a dynastic state of the Sixteen Kingdoms period in Chinese history. It was founded in 397 by the Xianbei chieftain Tufa Wugu after rebelling against the Later Liang. Its capital was initially located at Lelang (樂浪, roughly modern-day Wuwei, Gansu), later moving to Guzang (姑臧, within modern-day Wuwei).

The Southern Liang was largely confined to a region in what is now Gansu province. Its rulers were of the Tufa clan, who claimed descent from the royal family of the Southern Xiongnu. Throughout its history, it faced constant threats and conflicts with its neighbors, including the Northern Liang, Later Qin, and Southern Yan.

The dynasty was relatively short-lived, lasting until 414 when it was conquered by the Northern Liang under Juqu Mengxun. Tufa Tan, the last ruler of the Southern Liang, surrendered and was later executed by Juqu Mengxun.

The Southern Liang, despite its brevity, played a role in the complex political landscape of the Sixteen Kingdoms period, characterized by shifting alliances, constant warfare, and the interaction of various ethnic groups in northern China. The state contributed to the cultural and political development of the region, although its influence was ultimately limited by its short lifespan and military weakness compared to its neighbors.