Author: Unknown
•1:46 AM
By Freda Watts


The name Zhang Jiao may ring a bell for some, especially those who have studied a bit of Chinese history, but for many he is probably unknown. Zhang Jiao is actually an important part of the history of China in very early years. He was the leader of the Yellow Turban Rebellion, and often referred to himself as the 'Great Teacher'. Traditionally, his name is read as 'Jue', but in modern times people refer to him as 'Jiao'.

Zhang Jiao was not alone in his rebellious quest, as he had two brothers who stood by his side. Their names were Zhang Bao and Zhang Liang. Each brother played different roles in the rebellion, as Zhang Bao was thought of as the 'General of Land', while Zhang Liang was considered as the 'General of People'. Overall, however, it was Zhang Jiao who was the General of Heaven, and who determined the most important proceedings.

This act of great rebellion occurred in 184 AD. It is has also been known as 'The Way of Peace'. China was under the influence of Emperor Ling, and it was the time of the Han Dynasty. The head wrappings which were adorned by the rebels were the reason for the name of the army because of their color. All the rebels of the Yellow Turban Army used these head dresses.

Jiao's brothers often helped people who were sick. They were known as healers who helped others not for personal gain, but because of their caring nature. They often did not charge for their services, as the peasants were too poor to pay them. The peasants at this time lived under very poor conditions, and this was noticed by the brothers through their work.

Zhang Jue was a man who firmly believed in his faith, and he used his faith to heal others as well. His 'patients' were to confess their sins in order for them to be healed. The brothers, but especially Zhang Jiao, knew that the way in which the country was ruled was soon to improve, and he prepared those around him for the change. He hoped that he could better the future of the peasants who were struggling so desperately.

There were several reasons for the rebellion, but in general, it was to free the peasants who were so badly treated by government and the richer occupants of the country. At the time, many farmers were forced to move south, in search of work and food. The rich landowners of the area treated the peasants unfairly, and used them simply to gain personal wealth. The peasants were also subjected to unreasonably high taxes, and the floods that occurred only made matters worse.

The plan was that an extremely large number of people would fight the government, and cause destruction. Zhang Jiao was the leader of this movement, and he called for action. It happened sooner than he planned, but the people obeyed. Thousands fought along with their leader. Many lost their lives, but the lives lost were not in vain.

Although the Yellow Turban Rebellion did not accomplish all that it was meant to, and was ultimately defeated, things did improve. The Han Dynasty era also demised faster due to the event. It ended in 220 AD. There were also other rebellions in the future that were modeled after this one.




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