Battles & Campaigns · 205 BCE
Battle of Pengcheng
Xuzhou (ancient Pengcheng), Jiangsu, China
What happened
While Xiang Yu was away fighting in Qi, Liu Bang's coalition captured the Chu capital, Pengcheng. Xiang Yu rushed back and attacked the coalition camps at dawn, taking them by surprise. Liu Bang's army collapsed, and he escaped with a few bodyguards.
Why it matters
It was one of Xiang Yu's greatest victories. Several of Liu Bang's allies switched to Xiang Yu's side.
What came next
Liu Bang regrouped at Xingyang, and the war became a long struggle until 203 BCE.
Did you know?
Chinese historian Sima Qian wrote that a great wind confused the Chu ranks and helped Liu Bang escape.
Timeline
- 206 BCEXiang Yu makes Pengcheng the capital of Western Chu.
- Apr 205 BCEBattle of Pengcheng.
- Nov 204 BCEBattle of Wei River.
- 202 BCEBattle of Gaixia.