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Wang Hui
Western Han Grand Usher who championed the failed Mayi ambush against the Xiongnu and took his own life when blamed.
At dusk on a hilltop, a large tent stands open with a table holding a map marked with small stones inside, a saddled horse tethered outside, and fire stands burning; campfires dot the river plain below, and one tiny sentry stands on the slope.
Also known as Grand Usher Wang Hui
Wang Hui, a native of Yan, had served long on the frontier and knew the Xiongnu well. As Grand Usher under Emperor Wu he led one column against Minyue in 135 BCE. In 133 BCE he championed Nie Yi's plan to lure the Chanyu into an ambush at Mayi and commanded the force sent from Dai to strike the Xiongnu baggage train. When the Chanyu sensed the trap and withdrew, Wang held back with his smaller force, was charged with failing to advance on a plan he had proposed, and killed himself in prison. His court debate with Han Anguo over war and peace is recorded in the Biography of Han Changru.
Life and times
Dates Birth unknown–133 BCE
- 133 BCEHan Ambush at Mayi Fails