Battles & Campaigns · 575 BCE
Battle of Yanling
Yanling County, Henan, China
What happened
The Chu army was larger, but most of it was in poor shape and its two commanders disliked each other. Jin took a defensive position behind a marsh and ditch, which slowed the Chu advance. Jin chariots then attacked both sides of the Chu army and pushed back its centre.
Why it matters
It was a Jin victory over a larger army in the long rivalry between the states of Jin and Chu. Before the battle, a Jin officer had argued that outside enemies were needed for peace at home.
What came next
The Chu king was wounded by an arrow, and his army withdrew.
Did you know?
Jin officers twice let the Chu king escape as a sign of respect.
Timeline
- 575 BCEChu and Jin armies meet at Yanling.
- 575 BCEJin wins; the Chu king is wounded.
- 575 BCEThe Chu army withdraws.