Zhang Liao (169–222) was a military general serving under the warlord Cao Cao during the late Han Dynasty and early Three Kingdoms era of Chinese history. He participated in many campaigns, including those against Yuan Shao's clan and the Wuhuan tribes. Zhang Liao was most noted for his pivotal role in the Battle of Xiaoyao Ford in 217, where he successfully defended the city of Hefei against the advances of Sun Quan's massive army.
Chen Shou, author of the Records of Three Kingdoms, considered Zhang Liao among the Five Elite Generals, along with Xu Huang, Yue Jin, Zhang He and Yu Jin.
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