What is the Battle of Gaixia?

The Battle of Gaixia is the final engagement of the Chu-Han Contention in China that resulted in the defeat of the State of Chu and the establishment of the Han Dynasty.

How do you pronounce Gaixia?

Gaixia is pronounced "Kai-SHE-uh".

Who were the leaders of the armies at the Battle of Gaixia?

The forces of the Chu were led by Xiang Yu and the forces of the Han were led by Liu Bang.

Why is the Battle of Gaixia famous?

The Battle of Gaixia is famous as the last engagement after the fall of the Qin Dynasty which allowed for the Han Dynasty to be established. It has also been romanticized in operas, plays, and movies focusing on the love affair between Xiang Yu and Lady Yu and their death.

Battle of Gaixia

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Definition

The Battle of Gaixia (202 BCE, also known as Kai-Hsia) was the decisive engagement of the Chu-Han Contention (206-202 BCE) at which Liu Bang (l. c. 256-195 BCE), from the State of Han, defeated Xiang Yu (l. 232-202 BCE) of the State of Chu and subsequently founded the Han Dynasty.

More about: Battle of Gaixia

Timeline

221 BCE - 206 BCE
The Qin Dynasty under Shi Huangti, First Emperor, rules in China.
210 BCE
Death of Emperor Shi Huangti. His son, Qin Er Shi, ascends to rule.
210 BCE - 206 BCE
China steadily rises in rebellion against collapsing Qin Dynasty.
206 BCE - 202 BCE
The Chu Han Contention divides China. Liu Bang of Han battles Xiang Yu of Chu for supremacy of rule.
203 BCE
Xiang Yu initiates Treaty of Hong Canal, Liu Bang breaks treaty.
202 BCE
The Battle of Gaixia, Han forces defeat the Chu.
202 BCE
Liu Bang founds the Han Dynasty, becoming Emperor Gaozu.
202 BCE - 220 CE
The Han Dynasty rules in China.