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Zhang Yi

400 BC – 309 BC

Chinese prime minister

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About Zhang Yi

Lived 400 BC – 309 BC. Zhang Yi was a politician.

Zhang Yi (373 BC – 310 BC) was a Chinese military strategist and philosopher. He was born in the Wei state during the Warring States period of Chinese history. He was an important strategist in helping Qin to dissolve the unity of the other states, and hence pave the way for Qin to unify China. He was an advocate of the to combat Su Qin's . Both were said to be disciples of Guiguzi and adherents of the School of Diplomacy.

Biography A native of the State of Wei, Zhang Yi studied under Guiguzi

He received a severe beating at a banquet in the house of a minister of Chu when he was wrongly accused of stealing a gem. It is said that on his return home, he said to his wife, "Look and see if they have left me my tongue." And when his wife declared that it was safe and sound, he cried out, "If I still have my tongue, that is all I want."

In popular culture In the TV series, The Qin Empire II: Alliance, Zhang Yi was portrayed by actor Yu Entai.

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Important facts

Born
400 BC, Wei
Birth century
Died
309 BC
Occupation
Nationality
Wei
Positions held
Grand Chancellor

Contemporaries

People whose lives overlapped Zhang Yi's

Frequently asked questions

Who was Zhang Yi?

Chinese prime minister

When was Zhang Yi born?

Zhang Yi was born in 400 BC in Wei.

When did Zhang Yi die?

Zhang Yi died in 309 BC.

What was Zhang Yi's occupation?

Zhang Yi was a politician.

What nationality was Zhang Yi?

Zhang Yi's recorded nationality: Wei.

Sources & further reading

· Wikipedia: Zhang Yi

· Wikidata: Q197323

· DBpedia: Zhang Yi (Warring States period)

Cite this page

APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Zhang Yi. https://biography.guide/zhang-yi-politician-q4e0d7bf4/

MLA: "Zhang Yi." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/zhang-yi-politician-q4e0d7bf4/.

Chicago: "Zhang Yi." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/zhang-yi-politician-q4e0d7bf4/.

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