Map of Wei and Jingzhou during the Three Kingdoms period of China

Map Introduction

The Cao Wei regime's control over Jing Province during the Three Kingdoms period evolved from initial occupation to consolidation, a process that can be divided into three main stages:

Occupation and Control

In 220 AD, after Cao Pi usurped the Han throne and declared himself emperor, the state of Wei formally took control of northern Jing Province (modern southern Henan and northern Hubei). This included core regions such as Nanyang Commandery and Xiangyang Commandery. At this time, northern Jing Province became Wei's frontline territory for defending against both Shu Han to the west and Eastern Wu to the south.

Administrative Reorganization

In northern Jing Province, Wei established administrative units like Nanyang Commandery and Xiangyang Commandery, continuing the late Eastern Han system of provincial inspectors. For example, Xiangyang, a key military stronghold in northern Jing Province, served as a garrison base for Cao Wei commanders like Cao Cao and Cao Ren.

Evolution of Strategic Importance

The northern part of Jing Province controlled by Wei served not only as a vital link between the Central Plains and the Jianghuai region but also fulfilled a defensive role against Shu Han's Northern Expeditions and Eastern Wu's potential advances from the south. For instance, Zhuge Liang's "Longzhong Plan" still identified Jing Province as a primary direction for northern campaigns. However, after Shu Han effectively lost access to Jing Province, the focus of its Northern Expeditions shifted westward to Longxi.

It is important to note that the northern section of Jing Province under Wei control and the southern section (modern southern Hubei and parts of Hunan) under Eastern Wu remained in a prolonged stalemate. While no large-scale military conflicts occurred between them after the Battle of Red Cliffs, lingering territorial disputes persisted.