Yang Su

Yang Su (楊素) (544 – 606), courtesy name Chuzi (處道), was a prominent general, official, and strategist of the Sui Dynasty of China. He played a crucial role in the Sui dynasty's reunification of China and subsequent military campaigns.

Yang Su was born into an aristocratic family with connections to the Northern Zhou dynasty. He initially served under the Northern Zhou and later transferred his allegiance to Yang Jian (later Emperor Wen of Sui) as Yang Jian rose to power.

He distinguished himself during the Sui dynasty's campaign against the Chen dynasty, effectively commanding naval forces and contributing significantly to the Sui victory and subsequent reunification of China in 589.

Following the reunification, Yang Su held numerous high-ranking positions within the Sui government, including Grand General (上柱國) and Duke of Yue (越國公). He was known for his strict adherence to the law and his harsh treatment of subordinates. He also oversaw numerous large-scale construction projects, including the construction of palaces and canals.

Yang Su was involved in several military campaigns, including campaigns against the Eastern Tujue and Goguryeo. He was known for his strategic acumen and his ability to adapt to different terrains and enemy tactics.

Despite his accomplishments, Yang Su's later years were marked by increasing arrogance and extravagance. He accumulated vast wealth and lived in luxury, raising concerns among other officials and even within the imperial family. He died in 606, during the reign of Emperor Yang of Sui.

His legacy remains complex, recognized both for his significant contributions to the Sui dynasty's unification and expansion, and for his controversial personality and lavish lifestyle. He is often portrayed as a key figure in the Sui dynasty's early successes, but also as a symbol of the growing corruption and excess that contributed to the dynasty's eventual downfall.