The Battle of Yiling, also known as the Battle of Yiling and the Battle of Yiting, was a large-scale offensive campaign launched by Liu Bei, Emperor Zhaolie of the Shu Han Dynasty, against Eastern Wu during the Three Kingdoms period. Liu Bei was famous for the bravery of Zhao Yun, Ma Chao and others, but in this critical battle, he did not bring these two generals. What is the underlying reason for this?
First, let's take a look at Zhao Yun. As one of the Five Tiger Generals, Zhao Yun has followed Liu Bei for many years and has made many military exploits. His loyalty, bravery, and superb martial arts skills were relied upon by Liu Bei. However, before the Battle of Yiling, Zhao Yun was already old and seriously injured due to years of fighting, and could no longer be as brave and fearless as before. Although Liu Bei knew the importance of Zhao Yun, in such a crucial battle, he could not risk letting a veteran who was already unable to go all out.
And Ma Chao, the fierce general of Xiliang, has also made a lot of achievements for Liu Bei. However, before the Battle of Yiling, Ma Chao had just experienced a serious defeat. He was defeated in battle with Cao Cao, resulting in the near annihilation of his family. The blow was heavy for Ma Chao, who spent the next few years disheartened and discouraged. Seeing such a situation, Liu Bei was naturally unwilling to rely on a general who had more than enough heart but not enough strength in such a critical battle.
So, why didn't Liu Bei bring Zhuge Liang?Actually, it's not because of their contradictions or mistrust. Rather, it was because of the tactical needs of the Battle of Yiling. As a military advisor, Zhuge Liang's resourcefulness and strategy were the key to the victory of the Shu army. But in the Battle of Yiling, Liu Bei needed more of a brave and resolute general who could charge into battle. Such a role is more suitable for Zhao Yun and Ma Chao.
In addition to the above reasons, Liu Bei's decision-making in the Battle of Yiling was influenced by a number of other factors. First, he may have believed that the outcome of the war was not absolute, and therefore there was no need to send his best generals. Second, he may want to maintain a certain reserve of troops in case of emergency. In addition, the enemy general Lu Xun in the Battle of Yiling was good at using troops and being resourceful, which made Liu Bei more cautious. He may have thought it more appropriate to send some young generals to the battle in order to learn and grow in battle.
To sum up, there are many reasons why Liu Bei did not bring Zhao Yun and Ma Chao to participate in the Battle of Yiling. There are not only the situation and state problems of the two generals, but also Liu Bei's consideration of tactical needs and staffing. The combination of these factors led Liu Bei to make such a decision in this crucial battle.