Wei (state)

The name "Wei" refers to several distinct historical states in Chinese history. The most prominent of these are:

• Wei (衛) (c. 1040 – 209 BC): One of the vassal states during the Zhou dynasty (1046 – 256 BC). It was founded by Kang Shu, a younger brother of King Wu of Zhou, and was originally located in modern-day Henan province. The state played a significant role during the Spring and Autumn period (771 – 476 BC) and the Warring States period (475 – 221 BC). It was eventually conquered by the state of Qin. Duke Ling of Wei and his consort Nanzi, known for her alleged affair with Confucius' disciple Zilu, ruled during a time of instability in the state.

• Wei (魏) (403 – 225 BC): One of the successor states to the Jin state during the Warring States period. This Wei state was located primarily in modern-day Shanxi and Henan provinces. It was a powerful state in the early Warring States period, employing Legalist reforms under the rule of Marquis Wen of Wei, which significantly strengthened its military and economy. Important figures from this state include strategist Wu Qi and reformer Li Kui. Ultimately, this Wei was conquered by the Qin state, which would unify China.

• Cao Wei (曹魏) (220 – 266 AD): One of the Three Kingdoms, founded by Cao Pi, son of the warlord Cao Cao. Cao Cao had effectively controlled the Han Dynasty court in its final years, and Cao Pi formally ended the Han and declared himself emperor, establishing the Wei dynasty. The Cao Wei controlled the largest territory among the Three Kingdoms, including much of northern China. Its capital was initially at Luoyang. The Cao Wei was eventually overthrown by the Sima clan, who established the Jin dynasty.