A descendant of Liu Sheng, Prince Jing of Zhongshan from the Western Han, Liu Bei became the founding emperor of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period. Known as “the First Ruler” in historical records, his early life was marked by hardship and wandering, serving under various warlords. After forming an alliance with Sun Quan, he defeated Cao Cao at the Battle of Red Cliffs and seized Jing Province, later expanding into Yi Province. In 221 CE, he proclaimed himself emperor in Chengdu. Though historians considered his political and military acumen inferior to Cao Cao's, they praised his perseverance, magnanimity, and ability to recognize and employ talent. Liu Bei once said, “It is by opposing Cao that my endeavors succeed.”