Huang Gai - Biography

Biography

Huang Gai was born in Quanling County, Lingling Precinct (present-day Yongzhou, Hunan), and first allied himself with Sun Jian during the Yellow Turban Rebellion in the 180s.

At the Battle of Red Cliffs in 208, Huang Gai suggested to Zhou Yu that a fire attack would be the best strategy to use in order to defeat Cao Cao's gigantic fleet and overwhelming numbers. Zhou Yu approved of this method, and Huang Gai sent word to Cao Cao claiming that he wished to defect. Huang Gai had earlier loaded his boats with wax and straw, and when his ships were within proximity of Cao Cao's fleet, he set them ablaze and steered them on a collision course with Cao Cao's lines. This, coupled with the fact that Cao Cao had chained his ships together to prevent their soldiers from being seasick, caused the fire to spread throughout the fleet, causing massive damage and casualties to Cao Cao's army and forcing him into retreat. This plot resulted in a critical victory for both Sun Quan and Liu Bei, who would now be granted more than enough time to rally their armies and further bolster their positions within their respective territories. During the battle, Huang Gai was hit by an arrow and fell from his boat, but was rescued by Han Dang. He is said to have been highly praised and deeply trusted amongst his colleagues, particularly his third lord, Sun Quan. Huang Gai received various titles throughout the years, including: Auxiliary Corps Commander, Acting Colonel of the Firm Attack, Chief Commandant of Danyang, General of the Gentlemen of the Household, and Governor of Wuling.