Chen Tang facts for kids

Chen Tang (Chinese: 陳湯) was a skilled military general from ancient China. He lived during the Western Han dynasty, a powerful period in Chinese history. Chen Tang was born in Jining, a city in Shandong province. He became very famous for his important victory in a battle against a leader named Zhizhi in 36 BC. This battle was part of a bigger conflict known as the Han–Xiongnu War.

The Battle of Zhizhi

Around 36 BC, a man named Gan Yanshou was the governor of the Western Regions. This was an important area in the west of China. Chen Tang was his deputy, meaning he was second in command. Chen Tang believed that Zhizhi, a powerful leader, was planning to build a huge empire. He thought they should attack Zhizhi first, before he became too strong.

Preparing for Battle

Gan Yanshou didn't agree with Chen Tang's plan at first. But then, Gan Yanshou became very sick. While he was ill, Chen Tang did something bold: he pretended to have the Emperor's permission. He wrote an official order in Gan Yanshou's name and gathered the army. Gan Yanshou had no choice but to go along with the plan. All of this happened without the real permission of the Emperor.

A large army of 40,000 soldiers was put together. This army included both Han Chinese troops and "Hu" troops. "Hu" was a general term for people who were not Chinese. The army marched west, traveling along both sides of the Tarim Basin. They met up again near Kashgar and then moved through the land of Kangju, reaching the western shore of Lake Balkhash.

The Big Fight

During their journey, a group of several thousand Kangju horsemen attacked the back of the Chinese army. They had just finished raiding another group called the Wusun. The Kangju riders stole a lot of food and weapons. Chen Tang quickly sent his Hu troops back to fight them. They defeated the Kangju, killing 460 of them. They also freed 470 Wusun people who had been captured.

In the main battle, 1,518 Xiongnu soldiers died, including Zhizhi himself and his wives. Another 145 Xiongnu were captured, and more than 1,000 surrendered. The soldiers were allowed to keep the treasures they found. The Xiongnu who surrendered were given to the fifteen kingdoms that had helped in the battle. Zhizhi was the only Xiongnu Chanyu (a title like a king) ever killed by the Chinese.

Famous Words

Chen Tang is also remembered for a famous quote. He once said:

"夫胡兵五而当汉兵一." This means: "A single soldier of Han is equal to five Northern barbarian soldiers." This showed his great confidence in the Han army.

Family

Chen Tang had a son named:

• Chen Feng (陈冯). He was given the title Pohu hou (破胡侯), which means "Marquis who Defeated the Hu."