Liu Zhang

Who was Liu Zhang?

Liu Zhang, formally Prince Jing of Chengyang, sometimes known in later historical accounts and literature by his earlier title, Marquess of Zhuxu, was an important political figure in the anti-Lü clan conspiracy during the Lü Clan Disturbance in 180 BC.

He was created the Marquess of Zhuxu in 186 BC by Grand Empress Dowager Lü, who also gave him the hand of her nephew Lü Lu's daughter in marriage. Along with it, she also summoned him to the capital Chang'an to serve as an imperial guard commander.

After the destruction of the Lü Clan in 180 BC, Liu Zhang was initially promised the Principality of Zhao for his role in the conspiracy by the new emperor, Emperor Wen. When, however, the new emperor became aware that Liu Zhang had initially wanted to make his brother Liu Xiang, the Prince of Qi as emperor instead of him, he became very displeased. The new emperor therefore denied Liu Zhang the larger Principality of Zhao and only created him the Prince of Chengyang in 178 BC. Even so, He was well loved in his principality for what was seen as a heroic role in overthrowing the Lü clan, and the people of his principality worshipped him as a god after his death.