Huo Guang was a politician of the Western Han dynasty. Serving through the reigns of Emperor Wu, Emperor Zhao, the deposed emperor, and Emperor Xuan, he rose to the position of Grand Marshal and General-in-Chief. He was the paternal half-brother of Huo Qubing, an outstanding general and national hero of the Western Han, the maternal grandfather of Empress Shangguan, wife of Emperor Zhao, and the father of Empress Huo Chengjun, wife of Emperor Xuan.
This book divides Huo Guang's life into three parts: the diligent and capable close adviser, the minister who took charge and carried on the work of his predecessors, and the powerful minister who decisively deposed and installed emperors. It recounts the legendary story of how, after entering the capital and the palace, Huo Guang served four emperors and assisted three, chose and installed two emperors, deposed one, held sole control of the state without disloyalty, reached the height of his power in life, and saw his clan exterminated after his death. His story is unique in the historical records and unparalleled through the ages.
This book strives to unite historical accuracy with literary merit, knowledge with artistry, and seriousness with entertainment. It reveals how centralized autocracy can make those in power arrogant, extravagant, and foolish; how power and personal gain can turn friends and family against one another; how personal weaknesses let evil opportunists take advantage; and how lax discipline allows family members to abuse their influence. The book carries lessons relevant to the present day.
The Ming Dynasty Reborn: At Three Years Old, I Ascend the Throne and Become Emperor
Clouds of Smoke over the Flourishing Tang Dynasty
Hunting: A Million Armored Soldiers, and You Call Me an Ordinary County Magistrate?