Key Figures & States

Discover the legendary hegemons who shaped the Spring and Autumn period and the major states that competed for dominance across ancient China. These powerful rulers and influential kingdoms defined an era of transformation and political upheaval.

๐Ÿ‘‘The Five Hegemons

The legendary rulers who dominated the Spring and Autumn period through military prowess and diplomatic skill.

Duke Huan of Qi

685 BCE - 643 BCE
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State of Qi

First great hegemon, officially recognized by Zhou kings

Duke Wen of Jin

636 BCE - 628 BCE
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State of Jin

Victory at Battle of Chengpu, established Jin hegemony

Duke Xiang of Song

650 BCE - 637 BCE
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State of Song

Brief hegemony between Qi and Jin periods

Duke Mu of Qin

659 BCE - 621 BCE
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State of Qin

Established Qin dominance in western China

King Zhuang of Chu

613 BCE - 591 BCE
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State of Chu

Challenged northern states, expanded Chu influence

๐Ÿ—บ๏ธThe Four Key States

The major powers that competed for dominance during the Spring and Autumn period.

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State of Qi

๐Ÿ“ Eastern China

First to achieve hegemony under Duke Huan

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State of Jin

๐Ÿ“ Northern China

Dominant military power, later partitioned

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State of Chu

๐Ÿ“ Southern China

Challenged northern dominance, non-Zhou origins

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State of Qin

๐Ÿ“ Western China

Eventually unified China after this period