Jiang Wei (姜维) (202–264 AD) was a notable military figure during the Three Kingdoms period of ancient China, serving the Shu Han kingdom. Born in Jixian, Tianshui commandery (present-day Gangu County, Tianshui City, Gansu Province), Jiang Wei was the son of Jiang Jiong, a prominent official during that era.
Jiang Wei’s rise to prominence began during the northern campaigns led by Zhuge Liang. However, suspicions arose regarding his loyalty when he was serving under Ma Zun, the Inspector of Tianshui for Wei. Faced with distrust, Jiang Wei chose to surrender to Shu Han rather than face potential consequences, and his decision led to him being entrusted with responsibilities by Zhuge Liang. Following Zhuge Liang’s death, Jiang Wei emerged as a key military leader for Shu Han.
After the assassination of the Shu Han general Fei Yi, Jiang Wei assumed sole command of the military and continued the Northern Expeditions against the rival Wei kingdom. Engaging in multiple battles against Wei generals such as Deng Ai, Chen Tai, and Guo Huai, Jiang Wei experienced both victories and defeats.
Despite his military successes, Jiang Wei faced opposition from many Shu Han officials who were against further northern campaigns. The eunuch Huang Hao manipulated political power, leading to an unsuccessful attempt by Jiang Wei to eliminate him. Following this, Jiang Wei retreated to cultivate fields in Dazhong.
As the Wei forces, led by Sima Zhao, initiated a five-pronged invasion against Shu Han, Jiang Wei strategically maneuvered his forces to counter the threats. While successfully impeding the advance of the Wei general Zhong Hui at Jian Ge, Jiang Wei could not prevent the surprise attack led by Deng Ai on Chengdu. After the surrender of Liu Shan, the ruler of Shu Han, Jiang Wei was ordered to submit to Wei.
Optimistic about the opportunity to resist Sima Zhao’s rule through collaboration with the Wei general Zhong Hui, Jiang Wei eventually found himself unable to change the course of events. Both Jiang Wei and Zhong Hui were killed by Wei forces, marking the tragic end of Jiang Wei’s efforts to restore the Han dynasty.
Jiang Wei’s legacy is characterized by his dedication to Shu Han and his strategic brilliance on the battlefield. Despite the challenges he faced, including internal opposition and political intrigue, Jiang Wei demonstrated military prowess and loyalty until the fall of Shu Han. His story remains an integral part of the rich tapestry of the Three Kingdoms period in Chinese history.