Zhang Hua - Background

Background

Zhang Hua's father Zhang Ping (張平) was a commandery governor during Cao Wei, but died when he was young. Zhang Hua's family became impoverished, and he was a shepherd when he was young. A man from the same commandery, Liu Fang (劉放), became impressed with his talent, and gave his daughter to Zhang in marriage. He became known for his literary talent, and he wrote a collection of poems, ostensibly about birds—but in fact about people's tendencies. The poems received great renown, and the commandery governor recommended him to the regent Sima Zhao. Sima Zhao made him one of his secretaries, and he distinguished himself in that role. However, as Director of the Court of Sacrificial Worship he suffered disgrace because one of the beams in the Imperial Temple happened to break, for which he was cashiered. After Sima Zhao's son Sima Yan established Jin Dynasty (as Emperor Wu), he further elevated Zhang and created him an acting marquess. When Yang Hu encouraged Emperor Wu to conquer the rival Eastern Wu, most officials opposed, but Zhang greatly agreed with Yang and was later heavily involved with the strategies and the logistics behind the conquest of Eastern Wu in 279-280. After the fall of Eastern Wu, Emperor Wu created him the Marquess of Guangwu to honor him for his contributions.