Duke Mu of Qin facts for kids

Duke Mu of Qin (died 621 BC), born Renhao, was an important ruler of the Qin state. He ruled from 659 to 621 BC during a time in Chinese history called the Spring and Autumn Period. This period was known for many different states fighting for power. Duke Mu is sometimes seen as one of China's Five Hegemons, which means he was one of the most powerful leaders of his time. He made the Qin state much larger and stronger. He was also known for having many smart advisors who helped him.

Understanding Duke Mu's Name

Duke Mu's personal name was Renhao. His family name was Ying. During his rule, people would simply call him the Duke of Qin. The name Qin Mugong means "The Solemn Duke of Qin." This was a special name given to him after he died. It was a way to honor him and remember his achievements.

The Life and Rule of Duke Mu

Duke Mu was the son of Duke De of Qin and the younger brother of Duke Cheng of Qin. He made important family connections through marriage. He married Mu Ji, who was the daughter of Duke Xian of Jin. He also married his own daughter, Huai Ying, to two of Duke Xian's sons. These marriages helped create a strong friendship between the Qin and Jin states. This led to a famous saying, "the Friendship of Qin and Jin," which means alliances made through marriage.

Early Challenges and Alliances

When Duke Mu first became ruler, the Jin state was very powerful. But after Duke Xian of Jin died, his sons fought over who would rule next. One son, Duke Hui, became the new ruler. Later, Jin faced a terrible famine, a time when there was not enough food. Duke Hui asked Qin for help. Duke Mu of Qin sent food and farming tools to Jin.

However, later, Qin faced its own famine. By then, Jin had recovered and surprisingly attacked Qin. Qin and Jin fought several battles over the next few years.

Helping Duke Wen of Jin

During these battles, Duke Mu learned about Duke Hui's older brother, Ji Chong'er. Chong'er had been traveling and was living in the state of Chu. Duke Mu decided to invite Chong'er to Qin.

When Duke Hui died, his son tried to become the new ruler. But Duke Mu sent his army to help Chong'er become the new Duke of Jin instead. They defeated the Jin army at the Battle of Gaoliang. Chong'er, later known as Duke Wen, was very thankful for Duke Mu's help. This made the relationship between Qin and Jin much better.

Expanding Qin's Borders Westward

With peace on his eastern border, Duke Mu could focus on expanding Qin's territory to the west. He launched military campaigns against the smaller tribes in that region.

At this time, Qin and Jin were the strongest states in China. Duke Wen of Jin pushed some barbarian tribes, called the Di barbarians, to the west. Duke Mu of Qin also gained the support of many western tribes. This helped him bring eight different barbarian tribes under his control. These tribes lived in various areas, each with their own leaders. They would gather in small groups but no single tribe was strong enough to unite them all.

Later Battles and Achievements

In 627 BC, Duke Mu of Qin planned a secret attack on the State of Zheng. However, the Qin army was tricked into thinking Zheng was ready for them, so they retreated. Duke Wen of Jin had died by then, and his successor, Duke Xiang of Jin, set a trap for the retreating Qin army. The Qin forces were badly defeated at the Battle of Yao. They lost many soldiers.

Three years later, Qin attacked Jin again to get revenge and won a big victory. After this, Duke Mu decided not to attack further east. Instead, he held a funeral for the soldiers who died at the Battle of Yao. He then focused on his long-term plan: making Qin stronger by expanding its borders to the west.

Duke Mu's success in the western campaigns and his smart handling of relations with Jin made him one of the Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn period.

Duke Mu's Family

Duke Mu had at least two known sons: Ying and Hong. Ying became the next ruler, known as Duke Kang of Qin.

He also had several daughters:

• Huai Ying: She was married to two different Dukes of Jin, Duke Huai and Duke Wen.
• Wen Ying: Also married to Duke Wen of Jin. Some people think Huai Ying and Wen Ying might be the same person.
• Qin Ying: She married King Gong of Chu.
• Jianbi
• Nongyu: She married Xiao Shi. Some people also think Jianbi and Nongyu might be the same person.

His family tree includes:

• Great-great-grandfather: Duke Wen of Qin
• Great-grandfather: Duke Jing of Qin
• Grandfather: Duke Xian of Qin
• Father: Duke De of Qin
• Brothers: Duke Xuan of Qin, Duke Cheng of Qin
• Son: Duke Kang of Qin
• Wife: Lady Mu, who was the sister of Shensheng