Romance of the Three Kingdoms Zhang Liao

Zhang Liao, courtesy name Wenyuan, was a prominent military general during the late Eastern Han dynasty. He is featured as a minor antagonist in the classic Chinese novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms by Luo Guanzhong and its numerous adaptations. Zhang Liao initially served under warlords Dong Zhuo and Lü Bu before joining Cao Cao in 198, following Lü Bu’s defeat at the Battle of Xiapi.

Under Cao Cao’s command, Zhang Liao became one of the most distinguished generals of the era, contributing significantly to numerous campaigns, including battles against Yuan Shao's heirs and the Wuhuan tribes from 201 to 207. His most celebrated achievement was at the Battle of Xiaoyao Ford (214–215), where he led a brilliant defense of Hefei against Sun Quan's numerically superior forces. His decisive leadership and tactical brilliance earned him lasting recognition as one of Cao Wei's greatest generals and a symbol of loyalty and valor in Chinese military history.