Xiong Qu

Xiong Qu (熊渠), flourished circa 9th century BC, was an early ruler of the State of Chu during the Western Zhou dynasty of ancient China. While the title he held is debated – some sources refer to him as a viscount (子, zi), while others suggest he may have held a different, less formalized leadership position – Xiong Qu is significant for his aggressive expansion of Chu territory.

Xiong Qu is known for his military campaigns against the Yong (庸) and other neighboring tribes, which significantly expanded Chu's sphere of influence northward. This expansion brought Chu into direct contact with the Zhou Dynasty heartland and laid the foundation for Chu's later ambition to challenge Zhou authority. Notably, Xiong Qu declared his three sons kings (王, wang) of different regions in the north, a direct challenge to the Zhou King's exclusive right to bestow that title. These self-proclaimed kingdoms were short-lived, however, as Xiong Qu later revoked the titles fearing repercussions from the Zhou court. Despite this retraction, the act signaled Chu's growing power and independent spirit.

His successors continued his expansionist policies, eventually leading to the establishment of a powerful and independent Chu kingdom during the Spring and Autumn period. Xiong Qu is therefore considered an important figure in the early history of Chu, marking a transition from a relatively obscure vassal state to a regional power.