Wu Tzu-yü

Wu Tzu-yü (伍子胥) (died 484 BC), also known as Wu Yun (伍員), was a prominent military strategist and politician during the late Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history. He served the state of Wu (吳) and is credited with contributing significantly to its rise to power.

Born in the state of Chu (楚), Wu Tzu-yü’s father and elder brother were executed by King Ping of Chu due to political machinations orchestrated by the king's advisor, Fei Wuji. Wu Tzu-yü escaped Chu, vowing revenge.

His journey led him to the state of Wu, where he became a trusted advisor to Prince Guang, who later became King Helü of Wu. Wu Tzu-yü played a crucial role in helping Prince Guang assassinate King Liao and claim the throne.

As a key minister under King Helü, Wu Tzu-yü oversaw significant improvements in Wu's military and administrative systems. He is particularly renowned for his design and construction of the capital city of Wu, the city of Suzhou, a strategic location and architectural marvel of its time.

Wu Tzu-yü advocated for an aggressive foreign policy, urging King Helü to invade and conquer neighboring states. His military strategies were instrumental in Wu's victories over the states of Yue (越) and Chu. The invasion of Chu was particularly significant, as Wu Tzu-yü finally achieved his long-sought revenge by desecrating the tomb of King Ping.

After King Helü's death, Wu Tzu-yü continued to serve under his successor, King Fuchai. However, Wu Tzu-yü's influence waned as King Fuchai became increasingly arrogant and dismissive of his advice. Wu Tzu-yü warned Fuchai of the growing threat posed by the state of Yue and its cunning ruler, Goujian. He urged Fuchai to eliminate Goujian, but Fuchai refused, swayed by the treacherous minister Bo Pi.

Ultimately, distrusted by King Fuchai and falsely accused of treason by Bo Pi, Wu Tzu-yü was forced to commit suicide. Before his death, he famously requested that his eyes be gouged out and placed on the eastern gate of the capital so that he could witness the invasion of Wu by Yue.

Wu Tzu-yü's death was later avenged when Yue, under Goujian, conquered Wu. His story is a tragic tale of loyalty, revenge, and political intrigue, and he remains a celebrated figure in Chinese history and literature, symbolizing unwavering dedication and strategic brilliance. He is often depicted in opera and folk tales as a symbol of righteousness and unwavering loyalty.