Cao Cao and Yuan Shao at Guandu

三國
From episode 27 of the 2010 Three Kingdoms television series (战官渡袁本初败绩). Cao Cao distracts Yuan Shao, delaying the Battle of Guandu so that the sun will be in the enemies' eyes when they fight, and so that his cavalry will have time to circle around Yuan Shao's flank. This is one of the decisive battles of the Chinese Three Kingdoms Era, a period of civil war between the fall of the Han Dynasty and the rise of the Jin Dynasty approximately 1,700 years ago.
Featuring Chen Jianbin as Cao Cao and Xu Wenguang as Yuan Shao.
English subtitles by Jiang Hu.
2019 Update: It's really great that so many of you are discovering this series thanks to the new Total War: Three Kingdoms game. But please stop asking how you can watch the full series. I cannot help you there--use Google for that.

[@SkepticalChris]

Chen Jianbin's portrayal of Cao Cao is perfect. He embodies a character who is both cunning, manipulative and ruthless.

[@Netherfly]

He also has a healthy sense of humor. And, perhaps most impressively, Jianbin is able to portray Cao Cao's inherent uncertainty. He is a man painted a traitor by history, but his actions demonstrated unwavering loyalty--even at great personal risk. Jianbin's portrayal allows equally for either interpretation.

[@Alphenord]

Arsene Lupin Unwavering loyalty? He was the greatest traitor in the Three Kingdoms period. He was the one who defeated the major number of rivals, but also was the most hated person. The number of subordinates and people who wanted him dead and refused to serve him are uncountable.

[@SkepticalChris]

Cao Cao did what he had to, to survive and secure the state. One of his most famous quotes was "I'd rather betray the world than let the world betray me." Meaning he basically did whatever he had to, for the greater good. He was a pragmatist who made agreements when he had to and broke them when they could not work for him. He was not a nice man and he wasn't going for popularity, he did what he needed to for the security of the state.

[@Netherfly]

Compared to his peers, yes, he was a paragon of loyalty. Don't confuse the novel's fictitious accounts for actual history. Cao Cao was loyal to the Han until the day he died. He may have "betrayed" others, but his first and foremost allegiance was to the Han, and he never betrayed the Han.

[@Alphenord]

Arsene Lupin No, i am not confused with novel events, bro. To use the Emperor to personal gain is not loyalty, and he historically did it. To defile women such as Zhang Ji's wife is not example of any type. To kill the entire family of Lü Boshe, even trying to avoid danger is not exemplary either. To show disrespect for the Emperor carrying weapons at court is not loyalty, but treachery and lack of respect. Are you saying that Chen Gong, that refused to join him after know his true character, or Xun Yu, one of his best advisers, were wrong? Gao Shun, Ju Shou, many people refused to join him, despite the nice crew he already had in his service. I can understand your point being Cao Wei fans, but he was a cunning traitor. He used his father's death at the hands of Zhang Kai a poor excuse to massacre thousands of innocents in Xu province. He used it as an excuse to destroy Tao Qian. Sorry, but that does not justify him. Of course, if you are a fan of Cao Cao, you will never agree with me, but all this i have just said is history, not the novel or Dynasty Warriors, yes? I respect your arguments, but at least, try to also recognize his flaws, like all the other warlords have, before stating your response. Good day.

[@CapitalTeeth]

For those of you who haven't seen the series: What Cao Cao did here was stall for as much time as he could so that the sun would eventually be shining towards his enemy, blinding them during the fight. He even placed that parasol specifically so that Yuan Shao would not notice.

[@condorX2]

Brilliant! I start watching the latest Three Kingdoms and it's so gud! I thought Cao Cao was cunning when he deployed a plan to divide Liu Bei and Lu Bu. What I didn't expected was seeing the boy emperor using a scheme to divided Cao Cao and Liu Bei. He secretly accused Cao Cao of being a tyrant while he was living in luxury under Cao Cao protection. His blood written edict pretty much guaranteed a long and bloody civil war. We need to remember how the boy emperor was abandoned and starving. Nobody come to his rescue except Cao Cao. His selfish action just prolong the civil war. Same goes for Zhuge Liang and Zhou Yu. They all died trying to revive a corrupted Dynasty where super intelligent men kowtow to a child emperor. I'm at the scene with the 3 visits at the Sleeping dragon ridge. I realize both men was using each other's for their own goals. "Zhuge Liang created his own lord" Xu Shu previously explained to Liu Bei. To me, Zhuge Liang was the devil who invented divided and conquered. Liu Bei on the other hand knew about the rampage corruption of the Han. He should let it die and be reborn. Nope, he always complained about war and unrest while provoking Cao Cao instead of working together for a better future. There was this line I didn't really understand when I young. It's where a villager would shout "A dead Kongming have scared away Sima Yi!" Now I realize it's was a face saving propaganda, similar to western medias keep saying Ukraine is winning while ignoring the enormous casualties from the last Kherson and Kharkov offensives on September 18, 2022. Similar to Zhuge Liang disastrous Northern campaigns, they got absolutely nothing except deaths. The biggest lost was Wei Yan. Special note: I read about the 3 visits, it was fictional. It was actually Zhuge Liang who visited Liu Bei for a job. And he want the highest paying job. Cao Cao already have Xun Yu, Guo Jia and Sima Yi as his strategists. Sun Quan have Zhou Yu and Lu Su. Worthy mention. It was Xun Yu's suggestion that Cao Cao chose to escort Emperor Xian, who was then living in the ruins of Luoyang, to his own base at Xu (present-day Xuchang, Henan) in 196, taking on the role of protecting the emperor. Xun Yu's plan was to "control the insubordinate in the name of the emperor" (奉天子以令不臣); the 14th-century historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms subtly distorts this to "hold the emperor hostage to control the nobles" (挾天子以令諸侯). In the long run, this strategy would give Cao Cao a considerable political advantage over his rivals, allowing him to legitimise his actions by taking them in the name of the emperor. Guo's advice to Cao Cao on how to handle Liu Bei. Guo Jia told Cao Cao, "Liu Bei has great ambitions and has won the hearts of many people. Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are formidable fighters and they have pledged to serve him with their lives. From what I observe, Liu Bei will never truly submit to anyone, and his intentions are unclear. The people in the past once said, 'If you let the enemy off today, they will become a threat to you for a long time.' You should settle (Liu Bei) soon." At the time, Cao Cao was using Emperor Xian as a figurehead to command respect and had attracted many heroes to serve under him so he did not heed Guo Jia's advice. When Cao Cao later sent Liu Bei with an army to attack Yuan Shu, Guo Jia and Cheng Yu warned Cao, "Liu Bei will rebel if you let him go!" By then, Liu Bei had already left and he really did rebel against Cao Cao as he later seized control of Xu Province from Che Zhou, the provincial governor appointed by Cao Cao. Cao Cao regretted not following Guo Jia's advice. -Fu Zi Update I'm at the scene where Liu Biao is dead and Cai Mao with a large army surrendered to Cao Cao. The show mentioned subtlety where Zhuge Liang using scorched earth to burn every resident buildings, this forced civilians to fled with Liu Bei. In other word, they're being used a human shield. It remind me a lot about Ukraine and Zelensky. Liu Bei was like Zelensky to western medias. They need a hero to run their propaganda against the communist. Anyway.. The smartest person currently is Cai Mao. He won a battle without having to lost a single soldiers. He even got a promotion. Liu Bei should be like Cai Mao. My favorite part. E 35 part 3 of 3 at 00:11:47 Liu Biao son, Liu Cong surrender Jing province to Cao Cao. My second favorite part. Cao Cao using a scheme to recruit Guan Yu while he was in a life and death situation was the most interesting. Sun Quan try to recruit Guan Yu, but they end up beheading him after he refused lol

[@xlyoutube]

I know all the different names for the same person confuse many people so I'll try to provide some explanation on this: In pre-modern day China, people are given a name by their parents shortly after birth. For example "Cao Cao", "Yuan Shao". As one reaches the age of 20, a "styled name" is given by a respected senior, often their teacher or an elder from their clan or community. For example "Mengde" is Cao Cao's style name he received when he entered adulthood, and "Benchu" is Yuan Shao's styled name. A general rule is to call each other by styled name to show respect among adults. Calling one by his original name is a sign of disrespect. For example when these two call each other "Cao Cao" and "Yuan Shao" they are literally showing hostility. But one should not call himself by his styled name - it's laughably arrogant. When address oneself by name, you use your official name. For example, Cao Cao would say "Cao pays respect to brother Benchu." Yuan Shao should answer "Brother Mengde, it's good to see you again, I, Yuan Shao, am honored to welcome you to my city." What's even worse is to call someone by his or her nickname or "child name" for example Cao Cao's is "Ahman". Calling an adult, especially one that had obtained other titles, by this name is a big spit to the face. In this clip you can see when Yuan Shao was tricked to believe Cao Cao is begging for peace he arrogantly called him "Ahman". Some people may also get another name that are used in highest form of respect, such as Zhuge Liang, his surname is Zhuge, name is Liang, styled name is Kongming, then many people address him as "Wolong Xiansheng" (Master Sleeping Dragon). These kind of names also include "General White Horse", "Lord of Magnificent Beard", "Master Jade Lotus" etc...a bit over the top but quite awesome in its original language and context.

[@xlyoutube]

Also to add that one's styled name (two characters) usually has the same meaning or conveys the same message with their name (one character during this period of history). Mengde literally translates into "great virtue" whereas his name "Cao" also means virtue. Guan Yu's name "Yu" means "feathers" whereas his styled name "Yunchang" literally means "high and far in the clouds".

[@JBSauce]

Thanks for the explanation! I had no idea where "Mengde" and "Ahman" came from, now I do.

[@quetiaogoreng4651]

Wow, this new to me

[@user-oz5pk2dr7v]

Chinese confuss this too we also need to do a lot of homework.

[@WilliamSteinfield]

Thanks for this. Fascinating.

[@thatonestormtrooper2760]

"Just watch me make a fool of him."- Yuan Shao, moments before Cao Mengde made a fool of him.

[@calikk26]

Yuan Shao: theres no way we can lose at guandu. The gang loses at guandu

[@zeropoint216]

What a coincidence, I start playing Total War Three Kingdoms and suddenly this shows up in my recommended, thanks KZbin

[@reubenlawrence5258]

lol saame

[@FatmanQQ]

Google knows.. gooooogle knoooows..

[@mas849185ify]

Remember google is watching you....

[@Diogolindir]

I really need to buy a pc for running three kingdoms

[@KZK_Schadenfreude_108]

gdi it happened to me too, right as the moment I have to wage war against Yuan Shao lol

[@fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu]

He knew Yuan Shao couldn't resist the chance to do a vassalization.

[@jerrylin6756]

bb Lmao

[@abdallahahmed8980]

looooool wtf

[@Naegimaggu]

You make it sound like a medical operation... or something really perverted.

[@linpan2561]

How about me paying you a wooden fish in exchange for your daughter?

[@joofbing]

And he basically got half night battle when defending. That is some skill tree.

[@jadestep9624]

One often forgotten tactic of intimidation - When threatened don't yell or advance. Just simply smile.

[@amnesiacangel7212]

nerd

[@_zet_zet_]

@@amnesiacangel7212 :)

[@user-by4wk3ek9m]

@@amnesiacangel7212 ;)

[@thefather5765]

@@amnesiacangel7212 lol

[@XhizorBE]

@@amnesiacangel7212 Nerds are the one who rules the world and are inventing shit. Its not really a insult Seems you are looking for a insult then use the word autism. Its a very popular word that is frequently used by low intellects, who don't have a clue what autism means

[@frostyguy1989]

Notice how Cao Cao set up that umbrella so that Yuan Shao wouldn't notice the position of the sun.

[@flaviuskenneth2232]

Why they all see at the sun?

[@akim1932]

@@flaviuskenneth2232 It is very important turning your back on the sun when you fight. Else, sun might disrupt your (and your armies) visibility.

[@Robin...222]

@@akim1932 but all those 700.000 man did see the sun why they didnt say anythings?

[@akim1932]

@@Robin...222 It's just a drama. The real battle was not like that. Cao Cao and Yuan Shao NEVER drunk tea together during the battle. I am not even sure they saw each other's face since they were highest commander. I assume they wanted to stay in the best safest position of the basement.

[@user-gx8ob8od2k]

Hans this series is not based on the real history, but on a Ming Dynasty novel, San Guo Yan Yi, which only contains 70% truth. So, to be more dramatic......However, this trick is mentioned in an ancient Chinese military strategy guidebook, Sun Zi Bing Fa, and so are many other tricks in this series.

[@TheRealestEric]

I love the way he runs off, ahahaaa. This guy plays Cao Cao perfectly.

[@CS-bl2sz]

However, when this dram firstly launched in China, the actor of Caocao was criticized by the Three Kingdom fans. Because they still prefer the old version one.

[@CS-bl2sz]

Chen Jianbin is a great actor, he plays a lot of different characters but you will never think of that it is the same person.

[@newg4515]

hahaha he runs off like a lego character

[@Christian-rn1ur]

Charles Shi That might be because of how different perceptions can be of Who Cao Cao actually was. He's either a brilliant hero or a devious villain, depending on who's telling the story.

[@tigerwarrior1787]

@@Christian-rn1ur To me, he is both at the same time, since I see one perspective of the opposition of Cao Mengde, a ruthless, cutthroat villain who will use any advantage he can afford, while, at the same time, to his troops, generals, and the populace under his banner, he is a hero, a strategist, and a very smart businessman. The same could be said of Vlad Tepes.

[@DeathknightDragon]

Cao Cao's laugh at the end is pretty hilarious.

[@BingBangPoe]

16:08 I lost my shit whenever I see that laugh, specially when he forcefully blinks.

[@Prigozhyn227]

For the whole video I though cao cao was in armor.. lol (came from tot:3 kingdoms. need to watch this series I guess)

[@zaijienantao_jiege]

deceitful

[@joselh4681]

I keep coming back to watch this just for that.

[@youhan9574]

I like him running away at the end lol, with the serious music turning up

[@vguyver2]

That actor playing Cao Cao is a delight, he's both comical and savvy at the same time in the way he plays that role.

[@crusaderofthelowlands3750]

Yeah. He makes Cao Cao the most likeable character in the entire series by far.

[@AftermathRV]

@@crusaderofthelowlands3750 well cao cao was one of the most likeable characters in that period by far

[@lubu4u312]

its pretty god damn good acting for most of the people in the series. Im genuinely impressed.

[@alvinlimcr]

Ringo Yu who played Guan Yu is awesome too! He is also an underrated veteran actor

[@JXSMS]

Cao Cao was actually the real hero of that era, and Liu Bei was the guy who betrayed everybody that ever helped him. Portraying Cao Cao as cunning and comical couldn't be further away from history. This actor looks like a street scammer or something, while all history books record Cao Cao as a man of great disposition and charm. What a waste.

[@exudeku]

Zhuge Liang: *laughs in the distance* Sima Yi: *face palms*

[@bayuadhi3671]

You mean Sima Yi: IMBECILE!

[@leonmohan1708]

The actor that plays Cao Cao is brilliant. I watched the whole series and and I can say I was truly upset when he died. His laugh and cunning ways were portryed perfectly.

[@farizdanialz]

Sun tzu said to "fight with the sun on your back so that the light be on the enemies' eyes" Cao cao intend to delay the war so at the moment of time Yuan Shao's army got blinded by sun

[@Netherfly]

Also to give his cavalry time to circle around Yuan Shao's flank.

[@augustuscaesar8020]

Double the damage... damn.. he's good....

[@spirowthedragon457]

But did they actually get blind ?

[@user-sv9ip4md2p]

我只看到孙子曰：兵者，国之大事，死生之道，存亡之地，不可不察也，就是说打仗关系到一个国家的生死存亡，不可以犹犹豫豫，也不可大意马虎，要一击必胜，如果不能干掉对手，就必被其所杀

[@xxooxx69]

Lmao

[@vazzeg]

The way Cao Cao stroke Yuan Shao's ego is pure genius. Also how he brought the emperor and stationed him in the vanguard ensuring that Yuan Shao despite his anger will not order a full frontal assault fearing for the safety of the emperor. I always say: Cao Wei, the only way.

[@condorX2]

Aye. I start watching the latest Three Kingdoms and it's so gud! I thought Cao Cao was cunning when he deployed a plan to divide Liu Bei and Lu Bu. What I didn't expected was seeing the boy emperor using a scheme to divided Cao Cao and Liu Bei. He secretly accused Cao Cao of being a tyrant while he was living in luxury under Cao Cao protection. His blood written edict pretty much guaranteed a long and bloody civil war. We need to remember how the boy emperor was abandoned and starving. Nobody come to his rescue except Cao Cao. His selfish action just prolong the civil war. Same goes for Zhuge Liang and Zhou Yu. They all died trying to revive a corrupted Dynasty where super intelligent men kowtow to a child emperor. I'm at the scene with the 3 visits at the Sleeping dragon ridge. I realize both men was using each other's for their own goals. "Zhuge Liang created his own lord" Xu Shu previously explained to Liu Bei. To me, Zhuge Liang was the devil who invented divided and conquered. Liu Bei on the other hand knew about the rampage corruption of the Han. He should let it die and be reborn. Nope, he always complained about war and unrest while provoking Cao Cao instead of working together for a better future. There was this line I didn't really understand when I young. It's where a villager would shout "A dead Kongming have scared away Sima Yi!" Now I realize it's was a face saving propaganda, similar to western medias keep saying Ukraine is winning while ignoring the enormous casualties from the last Kherson and Kharkov offensives on September 18, 2022. Similar to Zhuge Liang disastrous Northern campaigns, they got absolutely nothing except deaths. The biggest lost was Wei Yan. Special note: I read about the 3 visits, it was fictional. It was actually Zhuge Liang who visited Liu Bei for a job. And he want the highest paying job. Cao Cao already have Xun Yu, Guo Jia and Sima Yi as his strategists. Sun Quan have Zhou Yu and Lu Su. Worthy mention. It was Xun Yu's suggestion that Cao Cao chose to escort Emperor Xian, who was then living in the ruins of Luoyang, to his own base at Xu (present-day Xuchang, Henan) in 196, taking on the role of protecting the emperor. Xun Yu's plan was to "control the insubordinate in the name of the emperor" (奉天子以令不臣); the 14th-century historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms subtly distorts this to "hold the emperor hostage to control the nobles" (挾天子以令諸侯). In the long run, this strategy would give Cao Cao a considerable political advantage over his rivals, allowing him to legitimise his actions by taking them in the name of the emperor. Guo's advice to Cao Cao on how to handle Liu Bei. Guo Jia told Cao Cao, "Liu Bei has great ambitions and has won the hearts of many people. Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are formidable fighters and they have pledged to serve him with their lives. From what I observe, Liu Bei will never truly submit to anyone, and his intentions are unclear. The people in the past once said, 'If you let the enemy off today, they will become a threat to you for a long time.' You should settle (Liu Bei) soon." At the time, Cao Cao was using Emperor Xian as a figurehead to command respect and had attracted many heroes to serve under him so he did not heed Guo Jia's advice. When Cao Cao later sent Liu Bei with an army to attack Yuan Shu, Guo Jia and Cheng Yu warned Cao, "Liu Bei will rebel if you let him go!" By then, Liu Bei had already left and he really did rebel against Cao Cao as he later seized control of Xu Province from Che Zhou, the provincial governor appointed by Cao Cao. Cao Cao regretted not following Guo Jia's advice. -Fu Zi Update I'm at the scene where Liu Biao is dead and Cai Mao with a large army surrendered to Cao Cao. The show mentioned subtlety where Zhuge Liang using scorched earth to burn every resident buildings, this forced civilians to fled with Liu Bei. In other word, they're being used a human shield. It remind me a lot about Ukraine and Zelensky. Liu Bei was like Zelensky to western medias. They need a hero to run their propaganda against the communist. Anyway.. The smartest person currently is Cai Mao. He won a battle without having to lost a single soldiers. He even got a promotion. Liu Bei should be like Cai Mao. My favorite part. E 35 part 3 of 3 at 00:11:47 Liu Biao son, Liu Cong surrender Jing province to Cao Cao. My second favorite part. Cao Cao using a scheme to recruit Guan Yu while he was in a life and death situation was the most interesting. Sun Quan try to recruit Guan Yu, but they end up beheading him after he refused lol 😅

[@CoffeeSuccubus]

"Watch me make a fool of him" Famous last words for Yuan Shao's ego.

[@obsidianstatue]

this is how you have the leaders of 2 armies meet for a quick chat, NOT the B.S meeting in front of the King's landing wall.

[@fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu]

they were whispering to each other from 500 meters away lol

[@thelastking5072]

Ah, a reminder of biggest season fail ever

[@MastersDefender]

😂

[@nehcooahnait7827]

Mao and Chiang also met and signed peace agreement before the civil war... yet both sides were preparing for a bloody war

[@marijamihajlovic4584]

WE ARE STILL AND WILL NEVER BE OVER THE FACT HOW THEY WROTE FINALE SEASON

[@docilecatfish1370]

I love how Cao Cao still could’ve tricked Yuan Shao into leaving him with a province even though he could decimate Cao Cao’s army right now. Yuan Shao is indecisive even when he holds a massive advantage.

[@SseriousGgamer3]

The director of this show literally played dynasty warriors 2-5 and said “I’m gonna make my show with the perfect cao cao” and it was done

[@Aethereality]

Cao Cao is such a troll! There's a reason why he's my favorite leader lmao.

[@alexanderchristopher6237]

@@josephmatthews7698 it's the same way we all venerate leaders like Julius Caesar, Charlemagne, etc. They all are deemed great in their own right due to something they did. Cao Cao is no different. He may be cruel, yet everything he does seems to have a purpose. He looks more into the big picture. And that is his strength.

[@borjadecoy25]

@@josephmatthews7698 People venerate Liu Bei more and he was arguably worse.

[@kgo4026]

@@josephmatthews7698 the Chinese are tough people they need a tough leader.

[@josephmatthews7698]

@@kgo4026 he's not tough. Committing genocide and familial exterminations is a sign of cowardice not strength. A tough man wouldn't be so damned paranoid and scared.

[@kgo4026]

@@josephmatthews7698 yeah because conquering half of china is considered "weakness"

[@terranrepublic7023]

16:12 look at the way he runs away from Yuan, as if he were still that young companion of mischief fooling around together with Yuan back in the days... only this time he fooled Yuan for All Under Heaven, lol

[@user-xb2wr2ff7b]

Tony Li Hmmmm I think All Under Heaven is a history noun

[@kyinfidelis3425]

At first I was like, what's the point of the umbrella? It barely covers anything. Now I understand it's to prevent Yuan Shao to notice the sun. Brilliant execution, I must say.

[@LordSadicus]

Partly because of the upcoming Total War game, but also because part of my family is chinese, I have started to gain an increasing interest in Chinese history. Truly a fascinating history from which to learn from. After all, learn from the past to guide to the future. Modernity is after all more often than not a hindrance and a curse than an actual blessing. Thanks for the video! You deserve the thumbs up!

[@Netherfly]

Thanks! I've found Chinese history to be deeply compelling--and there's just sooo much of it. I don't want to come across as presumptuous, I just like sharing stuff I love, so if you're already aware of this stuff, don't mind me at all. Otherwise, you may want to check out: 1. The "four great Chinese novels." They're all historical fiction with varying levels of fantastical/mystical elements: Romance of the Three Kingdoms (the basis of this TV show); Water Marigin; Journey to the West (there's a great, slightly abridged English translation that's simply titled "Monkey" I'd recommend reading first); and Dream of the Red Chamber. 2. The Fengshen Yanyi! 封神演義 Usually translated as either "The Creation of the Gods" or "The Investiture of the Gods." I got ahold of a four-volume bilingual edition a few years ago, and it is probably my most-prized book. Written about 500 years ago, it's part-history, part-mythology, and is really cool. Definitely my favorite of the "classics." English translations can be hard to come by, though. 3. There's a book called "When China Ruled the Seas," by Louise Levathes. It's fairly short nonfiction about how Chinese fleets were plying the oceans oceans all over the world centuries before the Europeans, but this brief period of exploration was basically lost to history after a subsequent emperor erased the records. Really fascinating stuff--and it's pop-nonfiction, so short and easy to read! 4. "Tun Huang" is, while not my favorite, arguably the most well-known novel by Inoue Yasushi, one of Japan's greatest writers, focuses a great deal on Chinese history. Likewise his other novel, "Blue Wolf," which focuses on the Mongol Invasion. He had a background as a newspaper journalist in pre-war Japan, so his writing is very clear and accessible. Heavily recommended! 5. I'm getting further and further from the topic at hand here, but if you're delving into Chinese history and culture, I'd be remiss if I didn't point you at Xiao Hong. Another turn-of-the-century writer, her short stories are -phenomenal.- The collection, "The Dyers' Daughter," is the perfect place to start. 6. And lastly, there's tons of pop-culture media based off of Chinese history and classics. Most of it sucks. The TV show the clip is from? Almost perfect. Maybe also keep an eye out for the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" grand strategy games by Tecmo-Koei (I think the latest is on Steam and PS4, though I can't remember if it's localized in English or not). There's also a total conversion mod based on the same period for Rome Total War, and maybe Medieval 2 Total War, if you can't wait for the next TW game or can't run it, or if it ends up being terrible. There's also the Kessen series of semi-historical RPGs on the PS2; IIRC the first two are based on the three kingdoms era. And so, so, so many movies.

[@dearestterror5234]

@@Netherfly dynasty warriors is a great game series based off of realistic events in china

[@thesuddendemise7735]

Lord Sadicus I recommend records of the three kingdoms for most of the real experience.

[@asdasdasdasd61932]

The Japanese game suikoden pretty much is water margin lol Hell it even translates into water margin (sui-ko-den) = sui hu zhuan

[@lafoonxiii5311]

I've never really been interested in Chinese history, as I have grown up learning and being fascinated by almost exclusively European (and near east) history. I've visited Japan, and so have researched their history a bit, but not extensively. One of my best friends is even Chinese, who immigrated from Henan when he was 15, about 13 years ago. But even knowing him, I never cared much to learn about the histories of China. So, when I saw that Total War's next historical title was going to be the Three Kingdoms period, I was a little bit disappointed, and definitely not looking forward to it's release as much as I did for previous titles (we won't get into the whole Warhammer debacle, which IO'm not too pleased with...Total War, IMO, should be exclusively historical...but hey, I'm not the one those games are made for, so it's neither here nor there). My only exposure to the period was the Dynasty Warriors series, of which I only played DW3, years ago, and my knowledge of China's history as a whole could probably be boiled down to the Opium Wars, Boxer Rebellion, and Mao. Having said all of that....I love the game, and am now fascinated by the Three Kingdoms period. Furthermore, I'm eager to learn more about the histories of China.

[@johnremp3470]

I’ve been playing dynasty warriors since 2002. I absolutely love this whole story so I’m excited I found a live action portrayal.

[@Twigs1836]

"Cao Mengde will never be defeated in battle!" Sun Quan and Liu Bei: "We're gonna end this man's whole career."

[@Jayvee4635]

Sends ships as gifts Fire ships

[@ravezon]

well technically, both only manage give cao cao a minor set back and nothing more. Didnt really end his career tho. XD

[@fight4ourright306]

Coa coa died of illness and old age. Nobody stopped him.

[@SuperNintendawg]

@@ravezon hardly a "minor" setback, but his recovery was very impressive.

[@ravezon]

@@SuperNintendawg thats why its a minor setback dawg. No other warlord can simply brush it off then come back even stronger. Cao cao the only one can do it after hes done with yuan shao. Cao cao have the best starting position to grow while Sun and Liu mostly moving around until certain point where they both got their place to grow.

[@OmegaTrooper]

God I love Cao Cao and Chen Jianbin. 16:04 - like a cat preparing to pounce on its prey, 16:12 like a child, overjoyed that his little plan worked

[@jonjonhyper8324]

Cao cao is so manipulative. And that moment he says "Yuan Shao". In Chinese culture, it means all respect is gone

[@Tobbs96]

Not to mention Cao Cao referred to himself as Cao Mengde

[@Fergusonguitar]

Probably one of the best scenes in television history. (The ending anyways) The actor who played Cao Cao truly embodied the spirit.

[@SirContent]

Maverick Stone you should watch the old version during 1990

[@foi2eman822]

Sima Yi and Xu Chu are also brilliant characters in the show.

[@811chelseafc]

FoI2eman 82 love the show but I’ll never forgive them taking the “10 ways Cao Cao is better than Yuan Shao” from Guo Jia and giving it to Xu Chu.

[@jpthomas9491]

The first time I saw this I was certain Guo Tu was secretly working for Cao Cao Turns out he isn't, he's just an idiot.

[@yousafmehmet]

Yea he was just an idiot.

[@celestialarcher9268]

@@yousafmehmet Agreed, he was probably Yuan Shao's worst advisor out of the bunch. Xu You, Tian Feng, and Ju Shou were way better than him

[@liegelord1971]

Cao Cao trolling Yuan Shao

[@DampySenpai]

When Yuan Shao appears: *DW4: In full bloom starts playing.*

[@capricornkid28]

15:34 It's what you all came here to see.

[@ShouYanbo]

Nope, it's 16:03 XD

[@Netherfly]

Shou Yanbo 15:42 for me--when he first laughs.

[@jessehyde375]

+Shou Yanbo yep when he runs away all funny looking 😂

[@xktwnxl4zlx213]

Cacao is the best character!

[@BlackSkullArmor]

Vid is 16 minutes long without any flashy fighting, but you could feel the tension and animosity in every exchange. Bravo

[@crusaderofthelowlands3750]

Cao Cao is fucking adorable.

[@rebeccaa2782]

Not many people mention how cao cao tricks yuan shao into thanking the emperor for the gifts. He puts him in a position where yuan shao has to acknowledge the emperor and thus also cao cao.

[@TheRealGuywithoutaMustache]

As a Dynasty Warriors fan, this brings me so much happiness.

[@valerianfox-jiang272]

I found youuuuuu

[@flashzans1792]

How

[@shanedavidson1021]

Wow everyone saying they got from total war. Where's my DW people at?

[@TheDrunkHamster]

Right here!

[@sieg-sandrodeshannon3035]

And where is my ROTK people?

[@recas2780]

I play DW and ROTK so count me in 🙋‍♂️

[@ryanbrazell8514]

Present!

[@josephwebster4101]

@@sieg-sandrodeshannon3035 been here for about 30 years now... NES, Rotk 1 and 2 :)

[@condorX2]

I start watching the latest Three Kingdoms and it's so gud! I thought Cao Cao was cunning when he deployed a plan to divide Liu Bei and Lu Bu. What I didn't expected was seeing the boy emperor using a scheme to divided Cao Cao and Liu Bei. He secretly accused Cao Cao of being a tyrant while he was living in luxury under Cao Cao protection. His blood written edict pretty much guaranteed a long and bloody civil war. We need to remember how the boy emperor was abandoned and starving. Nobody come to his rescue except Cao Cao. His selfish action just prolong the civil war. Same goes for Zhuge Liang and Zhou Yu. They all died trying to revive a corrupted Dynasty where super intelligent men kowtow to a child emperor. I'm at the scene with the 3 visits at the Sleeping dragon ridge. I realize both men was using each other's for their own goals. "Zhuge Liang created his own lord" Xu Shu previously explained to Liu Bei. To me, Zhuge Liang was the devil who invented divided and conquered. Liu Bei on the other hand knew about the rampage corruption of the Han. He should let it die and be reborn. Nope, he always complained about war and unrest while provoking Cao Cao instead of working together for a better future. There was this line I didn't really understand when I young. It's where a villager would shout "A dead Kongming have scared away Sima Yi!" Now I realize it's was a face saving propaganda, similar to western medias keep saying Ukraine is winning while ignoring the enormous casualties from the last Kherson and Kharkov offensives on September 18, 2022. Similar to Zhuge Liang disastrous Northern campaigns, they got absolutely nothing except deaths. The biggest lost was Wei Yan. Special note: I read about the 3 visits, it was fictional. It was actually Zhuge Liang who visited Liu Bei for a job. And he want the highest paying job. Cao Cao already have Xun Yu, Guo Jia and Sima Yi as his strategists. Sun Quan have Zhou Yu and Lu Su. Worthy mention. It was Xun Yu's suggestion that Cao Cao chose to escort Emperor Xian, who was then living in the ruins of Luoyang, to his own base at Xu (present-day Xuchang, Henan) in 196, taking on the role of protecting the emperor. Xun Yu's plan was to "control the insubordinate in the name of the emperor" (奉天子以令不臣); the 14th-century historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms subtly distorts this to "hold the emperor hostage to control the nobles" (挾天子以令諸侯). In the long run, this strategy would give Cao Cao a considerable political advantage over his rivals, allowing him to legitimise his actions by taking them in the name of the emperor. Guo's advice to Cao Cao on how to handle Liu Bei. Guo Jia told Cao Cao, "Liu Bei has great ambitions and has won the hearts of many people. Zhang Fei and Guan Yu are formidable fighters and they have pledged to serve him with their lives. From what I observe, Liu Bei will never truly submit to anyone, and his intentions are unclear. The people in the past once said, 'If you let the enemy off today, they will become a threat to you for a long time.' You should settle (Liu Bei) soon." At the time, Cao Cao was using Emperor Xian as a figurehead to command respect and had attracted many heroes to serve under him so he did not heed Guo Jia's advice. When Cao Cao later sent Liu Bei with an army to attack Yuan Shu, Guo Jia and Cheng Yu warned Cao, "Liu Bei will rebel if you let him go!" By then, Liu Bei had already left and he really did rebel against Cao Cao as he later seized control of Xu Province from Che Zhou, the provincial governor appointed by Cao Cao. Cao Cao regretted not following Guo Jia's advice. -Fu Zi Update I'm at the scene where Liu Biao is dead and Cai Mao with a large army surrendered to Cao Cao. The show mentioned subtlety where Zhuge Liang using scorched earth to burn every resident buildings, this forced civilians to fled with Liu Bei. In other word, they're being used a human shield. It remind me a lot about Ukraine and Zelensky. Liu Bei was like Zelensky to western medias. They need a hero to run their propaganda against the communist. Anyway.. The smartest person currently is Cai Mao. He won a battle without having to lost a single soldiers. He even got a promotion. Liu Bei should be like Cai Mao. My favorite part. E 35 part 3 of 3 at 00:11:47 Liu Biao son, Liu Cong surrender Jing province to Cao Cao. My second favorite part. Cao Cao using a scheme to recruit Guan Yu while he was in a life and death situation was the most interesting. Sun Quan try to recruit Guan Yu, but they end up beheading him after he refused lol ✌️

[@keli4775]

People watching this video may not know the relationship between Cao Cao and Yuan Shao. They have been friends since childhood. They have done absurd pranks when they were young. When someone else married, they took the bride away! Of course it is not an insult to the "bride." Just a pure prank. so Yuan Shao said ('那些丑事') those embarrassing things. In this war, they are decisive in life and death. In fact, it is very sad, because they do not represent them personally, but the huge family interests behind them.

[@dustin_echoes]

Guo Tu: "It's bigbrain time."

[@user-xx3qy6dz6g]

Lol

[@mistertaz94]

and by the end of the battle, my money is on that the tea table and such is still unscathed. XD

[@jianwen5760321]

Who else is here because of total war?

[@user-ck9xn5rk7f]

dog king

[@sweetlowfatjesus9663]

Dynasty Warriors, close enough lol

[@djax2492]

Giết bắc kỳ Kill the north What do you mean?

[@Nico-pg7qr]

Here here

[@1LERS1]

Heh, kid... I'm here because of Dynasty Warriors.

[@TESkyrimizer]

Literally just 2 men talking for 15 minutes but what a scene!

[@johndoe5432]

I finally know what that gif is from now!

[@terminallove3531]

THE SUN!! Cao Cao was waiting for the sun.

[@Elephantstonica]

“Invites you for tea and a chat.” 😉

[@kevinreynold5590]

the main key of this fight is xu you defection,if he had not join with cao cao,i think cao cao armies would have retreated to xuchang

[@damiester1]

TBH, many of his advisors were telling Cao Cao to continue with the war. This part wasn't mentioned in great detail with the Romance of the Three Kingdoms version.

[@user-sv9ip4md2p]

你太小看曹操了，许悠的确对这次战役有功，但曹操一方的郭嘉却早已料定了袁绍的败亡，袁绍之败非许悠一人尔

[@Gigas0101]

The only nitpick I have with this show is Dian Wei being relegated to a conversation referencing how he died. Thank you for this upload, time to watch the whole series again on youtube!

[@GinoNL]

Gigas0101 what is name of the series?

[@Infyra]

@@GinoNL Three Kingdoms (2010)

[@GinoNL]

Infyra thank you😁

[@BingBangPoe]

"It will take a greater man than you to defeat Cao Cao!"

[@khiemtran8471]

Had Yuan Shao triumphed here, it could have easily saved everyone more than a 100 years of continuous wars and deaths but then again we wouldn't have this masterpiece of a classic.

[@st4ne4rmthevill63]

Cao Cao was always my favorite from the Dynasty Warriors games.

[@I_am_a_cat_]

They really picked a great Cao Cao

[@Red_Dead_Director]

Best Scene in the whole 95 episode show - but many contenders - Cao Cao just gained his raider calvary, tactical advantage (sun in their face), confused the masses, and threw Yuan Shao off his game (humiliating him in the aftermath and making him act with emotion instead of a cool calm Sima Yi or Sleeping Dragon). We can all learn a thing or two from Cao Cao when it comes to life...

[@VerilyTriumphant]

Even Sima Yi acted with emotion towards Zhuge Liang later on in the show. Zhuge Liang is simply fantastic and Sima Yi was not his match.

[@Red_Dead_Director]

@@VerilyTriumphant I agree- and further - i try to conduct myself in life as Zhuge Liange - Like i literally ask myself what would he do - its a lingering effect of this I hope i never forget bc so far it has helped me from making impulsive mistakes or emotional... mistakes ....

[@elitegaming821]

The acting is incredible. Cao Cao crafty with the "Reinforcement ++"😶

[@al3onx934]

“Just watch me make a fool of him.” Famous last words

[@zsedcftglkjh]

General Yuan is fleeing from the battlefield...a shameful display!

[@Touchmyspaget]

"Yo bro, wanna become my vassal?"

[@Finsternis..]

16:03 The way he moves his head like this is just the best thing ever. Nothing will ever say "I got you" more than this.

[@faishalamin6689]

I feel bad for the emperor,he's being used by big name like a doll and not having a total control of his kingdom I can't believe how much he suffering

[@thanhtc1988]

Don’t worry, he live in luxury all of his life. Cao cao and his son treated him well, not kill him.

[@VerilyTriumphant]

@@thanhtc1988 Luxury is meaningless if you don't have peace of mind, liberty, love and respect. What was done to the Emperor was terrible.

[@moosegoose1282]

great acting, at 5:10, when yuan shao looks away cao cao looked at him in concern as if he is checking for the sun

[@endlessthunder6161]

What a troll Ahahahahahahahahwhahaha the way he just walk away

[@teldaritane2296]

for some strange reason, this Cao Cao is worrying me.

[@ex0duzz]

FuriousDragon12 I guess that means you think cao cao has a good actor playing him..? Haha.

[@fedemona1]

After 27 episodes, every time he was on screen i was worried for someone elses life. He's always so smiley and positive then somene gets beheaded

[@andrewmin5858]

2:38 Asian parents when their kids get an A-

[@sidnjal12223]

Who would have thought that after 1000 of years these guys will be remembered in 21st century

[@ZsXie10]

Sid Sharma 1220-1280 AD was China's Song Dynasty.

[@shinsenshogun900]

A book from 500 years have them another 1000 more to infinite fame

[@NiskaMagnusson]

If Cao Cao lost here, The Wei Kingdom would be replaced by the Yuan's dynasty (which could perhaps later collapse due to the son's rivalries) and the Jin could have possibly never arose, it's an interesting concept to imagine.

[@Blanqmind]

I feel like he's a Chinese Johnny Depp or Jack Sparrow.

[@the_justified]

Right?! That's the first thing I thought of too!

[@kubi3898]

Lmao i thought the same dude

[@kingsaulholymanfunnyman9688]

LoL good one I am actually related to Johny Depp

[@KBKim-jt6uj]

but with negative energy

[@SwiftFate]

Hes like the Chinese version of Ragnar from Vikings lmfao

[@BrorealeK]

Ew. No.

[@LordLobov]

Except he's real

[@reginaldbutcha4844]

Especially with that little head gesture at 16:04

[@diegolavega487]

Here cus of three kingdoms total war.

[@Legoman775]

same, Cao Cao is a beast

[@ShrimpGaslight]

Weak Finished this entire series 2 years before the game got announced

[@yudhaaprilian9252]

Who see this film and you like 3 kingdoms? because total war 3 kingdoms?

[@VChong1991]

You know, Yuan Shap's voice really sound like his portrayal in Total War :X

[@tim1102224]

From "Total War: THREE KINGDOMS - Fates Divided Announcement Trailer"

[@jahwhoo]

This translation is really top notch

[@vortexknight6420]

Yep, KZbin recommended this to me... Also Cao Cao is just a mighty troll. lol

[@SrChr778]

Knowing full well what Cao Cao was up to, a well played taunt

[@zackcoggins9752]

The thumbnail had me thinking I this was a cut scene from the Total War: Three Kingdoms game.

[@KossolaxtheForesworn]

so he stalled so the reinforcements can get behind them and the sun is shining into their eyes while they attack. what an absolute snake.

[@dunnono00]

What is the name of the music in the beginning? I can't find it in the OST

[@dalemcilwain]

Cao Cap never lost a battle. Red Cliff: Hold my beer.

[@yunleung2631]

BEST TV SHOW FROM MAINLAND CHINA EVER

[@WillCarter1976]

Yuan Shao: "Your Greed is Repellant!"

[@guitarguy476]

Cao Cao, as the sun is moving into position: "I'm about to end this man's whole career."

[@synissent]

This had such intensity for 16 minutes in which nothing happened

[@kevinwang215]

For as long as there’s breath in him,Cao Mengde will never be defeated in battle!

[@Megumi_Bandicoot]

Wan Castle, Chibi, Hanzhong. ;)

[@james-97209]

And then the red cliffs happened

[@carsondulin]

Yuan shao also play his role really good I still cant believe yuan shao lost with large army

[@artofthepossible7329]

Cao Cao adored Art of War. This type of field allowed him to use one its advice to maximum effect. " fight with the sun on your back so that the light be on the enemies' eyes"

[@vguyver2]

@@artofthepossible7329 Cao Cao said that out of everyone in his childhood only he himself and Yuan Yi (Murdered early by Yuan Shu before he could take office) kept on reading and studying such books. This is in contracts to Yuan Shao, Yuan Shu, Zhang Miao, and Liu Yu had pretty much stopped studying.

[@JustRelaxGaming24]

In an alternate timeline, Yuan Shao offered Cao Cao to be his vassal and he accepted. He joins Lui Bei and Yuan Shu as his trusted vassals

[@Seraphil1]

Yeesh, if I was Yuan Shao I wouldn't trust ANY of those three as far as I could throw them.

[@CompetitivelyAwesome]

Any idea where else in the series that awesome epic music in the beginning appears?

[@DARKMAGA6969]

Cao Cao is like Bill the Butcher from Gangs of New York. The actor is so great that you're rooting for the bad guy, or at least sympathetic to him. And against a bumbling fool like Yuan Shao, I'm glad he won.

[@igoweiqibaduk8283]

Powerful

[@YummyPie532]

the emperor is nothing but a burden in my hands. Sooo true in three kingdoms total war hahaha

[@bobsemple262]

I intentionally moved my capital to the border so my enemies can take the emperor for themself lol, screw the emperor, I'm willing to trade him with wooden fish if I could

[@tamiloxd7168]

Only is useful if it is possible to annex the empire.

[@WikiPeraX]

The vibe I get from Cao Cao here is very much John Simms’ Master from Doctor Who.

[@1chaplain]

So i watch one random total war vid and i get this. Nice

[@taylores3247]

Best scene in the whole show

[@Marquan1988]

O was an advent dynasty warriors player and it’s crazy I never knew this show existed

[@patrikjakobsen2142]

why did i not know of this. Need too find the complete serie

[@samyddf]

So many new fans here

[@MichaelHarto]

Wow, total war three kingdoms looks lit fam!

[@fantochedollmaker7030]

How on earth is Cao Cao a villain? I've been binging the show and he does the rational things to keep his people alive and win against bad odds. What, he should just rush ahead and lose all his men because honor?

[@yb000]

Fantoche Dollmaker he winds up getting worse as time goes on

[@huydang5955]

He’s also killed people who’ve helped him or at his kin just to further his ambition. He’s even entertained the idea of replacing the puppet emperor in his grip with himself and seize the Imperial throne himself, an act considered especially heinous and treasonous in Asian culture. Before this battle, he had the pregnant Empress strangled, so he could replace the Emperor’s wife with his own daughter and make himself father-in-law to the ruler of the country.

[@normalguycap]

Funny how the Dynasty Warriors games always has this battle at night.

[@quinctiliusvarus5534]

Сериалу сильно недостаёт бюджета, но актёры подобраны отлично.

[@TheRealestEric]

Always have the high ground, and the sun at your back.