Jiang Wei and the Burden of Strategy

This flow traces Jiang Wei’s growth as a strategist and his struggle to act within a court that repeatedly undermines his campaigns.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Defender of Tianshui

A Worthy Opponent Reading Kong Ming’s Feints Jiang Wei sees through attempts to draw Tianshui’s forces out and proves both courageous and strategically alert. A Change of Allegiance Kong Ming’s schemes eventually isolate him. Jiang Wei surrenders and becomes the northern campaign’s most capable successor.

The Heir to Kong Ming

A General Takes Up the Cause Inherited Methods Kong Ming gives Jiang Wei strategic writings and a role in continuing the effort against Wei. An Unequal Inheritance Jiang Wei inherits a mission larger than his resources. He possesses knowledge and resolve, but lacks Kong Ming’s authority over the court and broader political network.

A General Recalled

Victory Interrupted The Qishan Campaign Jiang Wei uses new strategies against Deng Ai and gains temporary advantages, but does not secure lasting territory. The Court Intervenes Huang Hao spreads rumors, and Liu Shan recalls Jiang Wei. His campaign ends before the military opportunity is resolved.

A Last Defensive Position

Holding Jian Pass A Strong Position Jiang Wei gathers Shu troops and defends Jian Pass against Zhong Hui, believing the mountains protect the route to Chengdu. Deng Ai’s Bypass Deng Ai crosses a seemingly impossible mountain route and reaches the rear of Shu’s defenses. Jiang Wei’s local success cannot protect the capital from the unexpected approach.

A Final Bid for Restoration

The Defeated General’s Rebellion Alliance With Zhong Hui Jiang Wei encourages Zhong Hui to revolt against Sima Zhao, hoping to use the resulting chaos to revive the Han. Death and Defeat The plot collapses in mutiny. Jiang Wei dies by his own hand, and the state he served cannot be restored.

During Kong Ming’s first Northern Expedition

After Kong Ming’s death

During the later campaigns against Deng Ai

During the Wei invasion of AD 263

After Liu Shan surrenders