Ying Bu (Qing Bu)

Biography & Historical Record

Ying Bu, originally known as Qing Bu because he was branded as a criminal in his youth, rose from a convict to one of the most powerful warlords of the early Han dynasty. A physiognomist once predicted he would be punished with facial branding but would later become a king. Ying Bu served Xiang Yu of Chu with great distinction, becoming the King of Jiujiang. However, due to Xiang Yu’s failure to reward him properly and internal strife, he defected to Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty. His defection was a turning point that helped Liu Bang defeat Xiang Yu. As one of the ‘Three Heroes’ (along with Han Xin and Peng Yue), he was eventually feared by the Han court. In 196 BC, after the executions of Han Xin and Peng Yue, he launched a rebellion out of fear but was defeated by Liu Bang’s forces.

Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms

While Ying Bu is a historical figure from the Chu-Han Contention, he is frequently cited in the text as a cautionary tale for generals who possess great military power but fail to remain loyal or cautious, often compared to the likes of Lu Bu or other ambitious warlords of the Three Kingdoms period.

Ying Bu — Historical & Literary Timeline

Key Relationships

• Liu Bang (Emperor Gaozu of Han)
  • Initially a rival, then a commander under the Han banner, and finally his executioner.
• Xiang Yu (Xiang Wang of Western Chu)
  • His former lord whom he served as a top general before defecting.
• Sui He
  • The diplomat who successfully persuaded Ying Bu to change his allegiance to Liu Bang.