Historically, Han Xin and Zhuge Liang were both outstanding military commanders, but they had different methods and outcomes in implementing their strategies. When Han Xin attacked Guanzhong, he adopted the strategy of darkness and Chen Cang, and successfully entered the Guanzhong area. However, Zhuge Liang failed to replicate this success during the Northern Expedition and never conquered the Guanzhong region. This article will analyze the reasons for this discrepancy.
First of all, there are differences between Han Xin and Zhuge Liang in their strategic application. Darkness was a strategy developed by Han Xin in order to break Xiang Yu's blockade, by deliberately showing weakness and creating an illusion to make the enemy mistakenly believe that the offensive route was in the relatively flat Hanzhong region, so as to attract the enemy's main force to concentrate here. During the Northern Expedition, Zhuge Liang focused more on frontal attacks, trying to directly suppress the Wei army through strong military strength, but this tactic did not work well in the face of Wei's strong defensive lines.
Secondly, there are also differences in the tactical execution of the two. Han Xin successfully took advantage of the enemy's blind spot in the secret Chen Cang strategy and penetrated the Guanzhong area through roundabouts. In the course of the Northern Expedition, Zhuge Liang failed to effectively implement his tactical plan, especially in the Battle of Qishan, due to improper personnel use and tactical mistakes, resulting in heavy losses for the Shu army.
In addition, there are differences in the external environment of the two. Han Xin faced Xiang Yu's Chu army, and although Xiang Yu was strong, his control area was mainly in the Jiangdong region, and his control over Guanzhong was relatively weak. Zhuge Liang faced a different state of Wei, which was a unified country with strong military strength and a tight defensive line. Therefore, if Zhuge Liang wanted to conquer the Guanzhong region, he had to face more fierce resistance and a more complete defense line.
Finally, there are also differences in the personal characteristics of the two. Han Xin is quick-witted, bold and careful, and good at winning by surprise; Zhuge Liang, on the other hand, is known for his steadiness and thoughtfulness. This personality trait also influences their strategic decision-making and tactical execution.
Therefore, there are many reasons why Han Xin was able to secretly enter the Guanzhong region with Chen Cang, but Zhuge Liang couldn't do it. In addition to differences in the use of strategy, tactical execution, external environment, and personal characteristics, it also includes differences in historical conditions and opportunities. The combination of these factors led to the different fates of the two outstanding military commanders.