Liu Churang, Chinese general and chief of staff (b. 881)

Liu Churang (Chinese: 劉處讓), whose courtesy name was Deqian (德謙), emerged as a prominent military figure during the turbulent and fragmented era of China known as the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Born in 881, his career spanned some of the most challenging decades in Chinese history, a time marked by constant warfare, shifting allegiances, and the rapid succession of short-lived dynasties.

As a skilled general, Liu Churang served under two of the most significant northern dynasties of this era: initially under the state of Jin, which later transitioned into the powerful Later Tang dynasty, and subsequently under the Later Jin dynasty. His early years of service would have seen him navigating the complex political landscape and participating in the military campaigns that defined the establishment and consolidation of the Later Tang, a state that briefly reunified much of northern China. The ability to maintain one's position and influence through such tumultuous changes speaks volumes about his strategic acumen and martial prowess.

Liu Churang’s career reached a zenith during the reign of Shi Jingtang, the founding emperor of the Later Jin dynasty. It was under Shi Jingtang that Liu Churang was appointed to the crucial position of Chief of Staff (Shumishi). This role was far more than just a military command; the Shumishi was a central figure in both military and administrative affairs, acting as a chief advisor and coordinator, responsible for strategic planning, troop deployments, and often handling sensitive state matters. To be entrusted with such a vital post by the founding emperor underscored Liu Churang’s deep understanding of statecraft and his unwavering loyalty. He would have been instrumental in shaping the early policies and military strategies of the nascent Later Jin state.

Liu Churang continued to serve the Later Jin with distinction until his passing on April 6, 943, leaving behind a legacy as a steadfast general and a key administrative figure who helped navigate the treacherous political currents of a fractured empire. His life story offers a glimpse into the lives of individuals who, through their strategic insights and steadfast service, played pivotal roles in a period characterized by both chaos and the relentless pursuit of stability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Liu Churang

Who was Liu Churang?
Liu Churang was a notable general and high-ranking official during China's Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (907–960 AD), a time of significant political instability and warfare.
What was his courtesy name?
His courtesy name was Deqian (德謙). In traditional Chinese culture, a courtesy name was an adult name chosen to be used by others, particularly in formal settings, alongside or instead of one's given name.
Which states did Liu Churang serve?
He served the state of Jin, which later became the Later Tang dynasty, and subsequently the Later Jin dynasty. These were two prominent northern dynasties during the Five Dynasties period.
What significant position did he hold?
During the reign of Later Jin's founding emperor, Shi Jingtang, Liu Churang held the critical position of Chief of Staff (Shumishi), a powerful role that encompassed significant military and administrative responsibilities.
What was the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period?
It was an era of political upheaval and fragmentation in Chinese history, lasting from 907 to 960 AD. Following the collapse of the Tang Dynasty, multiple short-lived dynasties rapidly succeeded one another in the north (the Five Dynasties), while several independent kingdoms emerged in the south (the Ten Kingdoms).
When did Liu Churang die?
Liu Churang passed away on April 6, 943.