King Helü of Wu
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King Helü (simplified Chinese: 阖闾; traditional Chinese: 闔閭) of the state of Wu (simplified Chinese: 吴; traditional Chinese: 吳) (r. 514 BC-496 BC), a state in ancient China, was initially known as Prince Guang Zung Fu (Chinese: 光). He reigned towards the end of the Spring and Autumn Period.
[edit] Biography
As Prince Guang wanted to kill King Liao of Wu and take the throne himself, Zhuan Zhu was recommended to Prince Guang by Wu Zixu. After Zhuan Zhu accomplished his mission in 515 BC the prince ascended the throne of Wu and became King Helü. The king assigned Wu Zixu to lead the design and building of the "great city," which evolved into the Suzhou of today.
In 506 BC Helü with the help of Wu Zixu and Sun-tzu, the author of The Art of War, launched major offensives against the state of Chu. They prevailed in five battles, one of which was the Battle of Baiju, and conquered the capital of Ying (Chinese: 郢).
His son, King Fuchai of Wu, succeeded him in 495 BC.
[edit] See also
| Preceded by King Liao of Wu |
King of Wu 515 BC – 496 BC |
Succeeded by King Fuchai of Wu |
