Who are the three fierce generals that Cao Cao dreamed of, and only when he loses can he know that love will be loyal to him

On the stage of the chaotic times, Cao Cao is undoubtedly a pivotal hero. His talent, strategy, and ambition have earned him countless followers, but in his heart there has always been a desire for some fierce general. These fierce generals are not only excellent in martial arts, but also have extraordinary intelligence and loyalty. However, fate always plays tricks on people's hearts, and although some fierce generals come to Cao Cao's side, they are fleeting; Some have always passed by Cao Cao and become an eternal regret in his heart. Which fierce generals made Cao Cao so haunted? Why did the departure of some fierce generals make Cao Cao feel painful? What kind of human nature and historical wisdom is contained in this?

1. Guan Yu: The perfect fierce general in Cao Cao's heart

Everyone in the world knows that Guan Yu is the head of the five tiger generals of Shu State, but few people know that he once had a relationship with Cao Cao. In the fifth year of Jian'an, Guan Yu defected to Yuan Shao with Liu Bei, but was separated from Liu Bei on the way and was captured by Zhang Liao, a general under Cao Cao. At that time, Cao Cao was already a prince and had a great reputation, but he treated this "enemy general" very favorably.

When Cao Cao first saw Guan Yu, he was impressed by his extraordinary momentum. He personally hosted a banquet to entertain Guan Yu and gave him fine wine. After three rounds of drinking, Cao Cao said tentatively: "General Guan's martial arts are outstanding, if you want to stay under my account to serve, you must reuse it." When Guan Yu heard this, he replied neither humbly nor arrogantly: "Although a certain person has been captured, he has already served Uncle Liu Huang, how can he be treacherous?" When Cao Cao heard this, not only was he not angry, but he appreciated Guan Yu's loyalty even more.

In order to keep Guan Yu, a tiger general, Cao Cao can be said to have tried his best. He not only let Guan Yu live in his back garden, but also treated him with a first-class diet every day. What's more, Cao Cao also specially selected ten beautiful maids for Guan Yu to serve around. However, Guan Yu politely refused these preferential treatments, only set up a small bed outside the door, and still wore armor day and night, to show that he had not forgotten his identity.

Seeing Guan Yu so persistent, Cao Cao couldn't help but sigh secretly: "He is really a loyal and righteous person!" So, he came up with another brilliant plan. One day, Cao Cao ordered someone to prepare a brocade robe worth thousands of gold for Guan Yu. Seeing this, Guan Yu wanted to excuse himself, but Cao Cao said: "This is a winter cold thing, if the general does not wear it, he is afraid of being invaded by the wind and cold." Guan Yu had no choice but to accept it.

Soon after, Cao Cao led his army to Yuan Shao, and Guan Yu also accompanied the army. In a fierce battle, Guan Yu took the lead and charged into battle. His brocade robe stood out on the battlefield and became a key target for the enemy. However, Guan Yu was not afraid, but instead took advantage of this to attract the attention of the enemy army, creating an opportunity for Cao Cao to break through.

After the war, Cao Cao defeated Yuan Shao, and Guan Yu's achievements were not insignificant. Cao Cao was overjoyed, and immediately made Guan Yu a partial general, and gave him a large amount of gold and silver treasures. However, Guan Yu distributed these rewards to the officers and men in the army, and he did not take a penny. This move made Cao Cao even more impressed with Guan Yu.

In the winter of the fifth year of Jian'an, Guan Yu killed Yuan Shao's two generals, Yan Liang and Wen Chou, in the battle of Bishui Pass. These two people are known as the two heroes of Hebei, with strong martial arts, and the generals under Cao Cao are invincible. Guan Yu's battle not only made great contributions to Cao Cao, but also demonstrated his world-class martial arts.

After Cao Cao heard the news, he was overjoyed, summoned Guan Yu overnight, and personally wrote a "Ugly Recommendation for Cutting Yan Liangwen" for him. The article not only praised Guan Yu's martial bravery, but also compared him to the ancient famous generals Lu Bu and Xu Chu. Cao Cao even said: "If General Guan is willing to stay under my account, he will be treated as a general." "

However, Guan Yu always cared about Liu Bei. When he learned of Liu Bei's whereabouts, Guan Yu resigned to Cao Cao. Although Cao Cao was reluctant, he also knew Guan Yu's loyalty and character, and finally let him go. Before leaving, Cao Cao personally saw off Guan Yu and gave him a large amount of gold and silver. Guan Yu wrote down these belongings one by one and promised to return them in the future.

After Guan Yu left, Cao Cao looked at his distant back and couldn't help but sigh with emotion. He said to Cheng Yu, the strategist beside him: "Guan Yu is a person who is loyal and righteous, both civil and military, if he can be used by me, why worry about the injustice of the world?" When Cheng Yu heard this, he persuaded Cao Cao to take the opportunity to leave Guan Yu behind, but Cao Cao shook his head and said: "The righteous do not commit adultery to their friends, and the brave do not fear their enemies." Guan Yu has such a character, if I force it to stay, wouldn't it be self-destructive? "

Guan Yu's departure has become an eternal regret in Cao Cao's heart. Years later, whenever Guan Yu is mentioned, Cao Cao will still be amazed. He often said to the generals around him: "If you can be half loyal to Guan Yu, why should I worry about not succeeding in the great cause?" It can be seen that Guan Yu's status in Cao Cao's heart is very high.

2. Zhao Yun: The enemy general who made Cao Cao envious

Zhao Yun, the word Zilong, Changshan Zhendingren, was one of the five tiger generals of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period. He was known for his loyalty, bravery, and fighting, especially for the Battle of Nagasaka Slope. Although Zhao Yun was always loyal to Liu Bei, his bravery and talent made Cao Cao in the rival camp fall in love with him.

In the thirteenth year of Jian'an, Cao Cao led a large army south to attack Jingzhou. After Liu Bei heard the news, he led the army and civilians to retreat to Jiangxia. When passing through Changban Slope, Cao Jun chased after him, and the situation was critical. At this critical moment, Zhao Yun stepped forward and rushed into the enemy formation alone to protect Liu Bei's family.

At that time, Cao Cao's generals Zhang He, Xu Huang and others led the elite cavalry in hot pursuit. Zhao Yun was dressed in silver armor and held a spear, like a god descending to earth, rushing back and forth among the enemy army. He fought alone with tens of thousands of troops, and no one could stop him. According to the records of the "Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms", Zhao Yun "killed dozens of generals and beheaded more than 30 captains" in this battle, which shows his bravery.

The most amazing thing is that Zhao Yun not only protected himself in such a sinister environment, but also successfully rescued Liu Bei's young son Adou. When Zhao Yun rushed out of the encirclement with Adou in his arms, the entire battlefield was shocked. Cao Cao witnessed this scene with his own eyes, and couldn't help but sigh: "Zilong is alone, the tiger and the tiger are like this, and he is really a masterpiece!" "

After the Battle of Changbanpo, Zhao Yun's prestige spread far and wide. Cao Cao took a great interest in this enemy general. He mentioned Zhao Yun many times in military discussions, praising his martial arts and loyalty. Once, Cao Cao even said to the generals: "If I have a fierce general like Zhao Zilong under my command, why worry about the injustice of the world?" "

Cao Cao's desire for Zhao Yun stemmed not only from his martial arts, but also from his character. Zhao Yun is not only brave and good at fighting, but also loyal and reliable. In Liu Bei's most difficult time, Zhao Yun never gave up, and this kind of loyalty is the quality that Cao Cao admires the most.

However, Zhao Yun's loyalty to Liu Bei also became the biggest obstacle for Cao Cao to get him. Cao Cao sent people to secretly lobby Zhao Yun many times, promising to be a high-ranking official, but Zhao Yun was always unmoved. It is rumored that Zhao Yun once said to the envoy: "I have received the kindness of Uncle Liuhuang, how can I be treacherous? "

Zhao Yun's resolute attitude made Cao Cao both envious and regretful. He once said to the strategists around him: "If Zhao Yun is in our army, he will be treated as a general." It's a pity that this kind of talent was obtained by Liu Bei. "

Although he couldn't get Zhao Yun, Cao Cao still kept a high level of attention to him. In the subsequent battles, whenever he heard about Zhao Yun's battle, Cao Cao would carefully inquire about the details and praise from time to time.

Zhao Yun's talent is not only reflected on the battlefield, but also in military strategy. During Zhuge Liang's Northern Expedition, Zhao Yun offered advice many times and made great contributions to Shu Han. This deepened Cao Cao's attention to him.

Cao Cao used Zhao Yun as an example many times in the army to motivate his generals. He often said: "If you can have half of Zhao Zilong's loyalty, why worry about big things?" This not only reflected Cao Cao's appreciation of Zhao Yun, but also his dissatisfaction with his generals.

With the passage of time, although Cao Cao was never able to get Zhao Yun, his appreciation for him continued unabated. Even after repeated setbacks in the battle with Liu Bei, Cao Cao still maintained his respect for Zhao Yun. This kind of appreciation for enemy generals was not common among the princes of the Three Kingdoms period, which shows Cao Cao's mind and ability to recognize people.

Zhao Yun eventually became one of the biggest regrets of Cao Cao's life. In Cao Cao's later years, he once sighed: "I have fought all my life, I have won Chen Palace and lost it, I have Guan Yu and I have lost it, and I want to get Zhao Yun but I can't get it, isn't it because of the number of days?" This sentence not only expresses Cao Cao's desire for Zhao Yun, but also reflects his helplessness towards fate.

3. Lu Bu: Cao Cao's rival and regret

Lu Bu, the word Fengxian, a native of Jiuyuan County, Wuyuan County, a famous military general in the late Eastern Han Dynasty, is famous for "the red rabbit in the horse, Lu Bu in the people". He is not only excellent in martial arts, but also known as the "flying general". However, Lü Bu's life was full of legends and controversies, and the feud between him and Cao Cao became a good story in the history of the Three Kingdoms.

In the first year of the First Peace, Dong Zhuo dictated the imperial court, causing a crusade against the heroes. As Dong Zhuo's righteous son and confidant general, Lu Bu should have sworn allegiance to the death. However, in Wang Yun's serial scheme, Lu Bu chose to betray Dong Zhuo. He not only killed Dong Zhuo, but also dedicated his head to the imperial court, and became famous for a while.

This incident aroused Cao Cao's great concern. He admired Lu Bu's martial arts and courage, but was wary of his capricious character. Cao Cao once said to the strategists around him: "Lu Bu Yong crowns the three armies, if he can be used by me, why worry about the injustice of the world?" It's a pity that this person is capricious and difficult to use for a long time. "

In the third year of Jian'an, Lü Bu occupied Xuzhou, adjacent to Cao Cao's forces. Cao Cao knew that Lu Bu was strong in martial arts, and he did not dare to attack easily. He sent people to lobby Lu Bu many times, hoping to take it for his own use. However, Lu Bu always remained vigilant and refused to take refuge.

By chance, Cao Cao and Lü Bu briefly met on the battlefield. The two looked at each other across the battle array. Cao Cao couldn't help but secretly marvel when he saw that Lu Bu was burly, riding a red rabbit horse, holding a Fang Tian painting halberd, and was majestic. He said to the generals around him: "The world often says, 'Lu Bu among people, red rabbit among horses', and when I saw it today, it really deserved its reputation." "

However, Lü Bu's capriciousness eventually aroused Cao Cao's displeasure. In the winter of the third year of Jian'an, Lü Bu formed an alliance with Yuan Shu to fight against Cao Cao. When Cao Cao learned of this, he was furious and decided to personally lead his army to conquer Lü Bu.

In the process of attacking Xuzhou, Cao Cao fought against Lü Bu many times. In each engagement, Lu Bu showed amazing bravery. Once, Lu Bu rode into the formation of Cao's army alone, invincible, and Cao Cao's own soldiers did not dare to step forward. Seeing this, Cao Cao couldn't help but sigh: "It's really a fierce general in the world!" "

Despite his admiration for Lü Bu's martial arts, Cao Cao strategically took steps to gradually encroach on Lü Bu's power. He knew that although Lu Bu was brave, he was not good at strategy, so he adopted the strategy of encircling but not fighting, slowly consuming Lu Bu's strength.

In the winter of the third year of Jian'an, Cao Cao finally broke through Lu Bu's base camp Xiapicheng. After Lü Bu was captured, Cao Cao personally interrogated him. Facing his former rival, Cao Cao had mixed feelings in his heart. He said to Lu Bu, "If you are willing to surrender, I will take you as the vanguard and plan the world together." "

However, Lu Bu replied arrogantly: "Jun once promised me to be a pioneer, but I don't believe it. It's better to release me, I am the vanguard of the king, the king is in the middle army, and the world is not enough. Cao Cao was greatly annoyed by these words, and he realized that Lü Bu had never been willing to submit sincerely.

In the end, under the persuasion of the generals, Cao Cao decided to execute Lü Bu. Before the execution, Cao Cao personally came to Lu Bu and sighed: "I wanted to achieve great things, but why don't you know the current affairs? When Lu Bu heard this, he still didn't change his arrogance, but just said coldly: "I'd rather bear others than others." "

Lu Bu's death left a deep regret in Cao Cao's heart. He once said to the advisers around him many times: "If Lu Bu can surrender, he must be reused." It's a pity that this person doesn't know how to advance or retreat, and it will be difficult to become a big weapon after all. "

Lu Bu's talent and character became an important reference for Cao Cao's selection of generals in the future. He often admonished his generals: "You must learn from Lu Bu's bravery, not from his capriciousness." This not only reflects Cao Cao's evaluation of Lu Bu, but also reflects his requirements for talents.

Many years later, whenever Lu Bu is mentioned, Cao Cao will still be full of emotion. He once said to Chen Qun: "I have fought in my life, and I have encountered countless fierce generals, but Lu Bu can be called the first." It's a pity that this person doesn't know self-love, otherwise why worry about the injustice of the world? These words not only expressed Cao Cao's recognition of Lu Bu's talent, but also expressed his regret for Lu Bu's fate.

Fourth, Guan Yu: Cao Cao admired the fierce general but lost after all

Guan Yu, the word cloud is long, originally a good person in Hedong, and then followed Liu Bei to various places, and finally settled in Jingzhou. He was known for his loyalty and martial arts, and was one of the most prestigious generals during the Three Kingdoms period. The story between Guan Yu and Cao Cao can be called one of the most complex and thought-provoking relationships between monarchs and ministers in the history of the Three Kingdoms.

In the fifth year of Jian'an, Liu Bei was defeated and left Jingzhou, and Guan Yu was captured by Cao Cao in order to protect Liu Bei's family. In the face of this famous general, Cao Cao did not hold a grudge, but treated him politely. He not only gave Guan Yu a high-ranking official, but also gave his beloved horse Chitu to Guan Yu. This move fully reflects Cao Cao's mind and ability to recognize people.

Cao Cao's appreciation for Guan Yu lies not only in his martial arts, but also in his character. He once said to the generals: "Guan Yunchang, a man of sincerity and righteousness." Although I can't win his heart, I can't bear to do harm. These words showed Cao Cao's respect for Guan Yu.

During his time in Cao Ying, although Guan Yu was treated preferentially, he always cared about Liu Bei. He has repeatedly expressed his heart to Cao Cao, saying that once he learns of Liu Bei's whereabouts, he will say goodbye. In the face of Guan Yu's honesty, Cao Cao not only did not get angry, but appreciated his loyalty even more.

Once, Cao Cao held a banquet to entertain Guan Yu, and gave Guan Yu a brocade robe during the banquet. Guan Yu put on a new robe, but put on the cloth robe he wore during the old battles outside. Seeing this, Cao Cao couldn't help asking, "Why is Yun Chang like this?" Guan Yu replied: "This is given by my brother, and I dare not forget it." When Cao Cao heard this, he admired Guan Yu's emphasis on righteousness over profit.

In the winter of the fifth year of Jian'an, Guan Yu learned of Liu Bei's whereabouts and decided to say goodbye to Cao Cao. Before leaving, he left all the gold and silver treasures given by Cao Cao, and only took the red rabbit horse with him. When Cao Cao learned about it, he not only did not stop it, but also sent someone to escort Guan Yu. This move not only reflects Cao Cao's generosity, but also shows his special feelings for Guan Yu.

After Guan Yu left, Cao Cao still missed him. He mentioned Guan Yu many times in military discussions and praised his loyalty and commendability. Some generals suggested sending troops to pursue Guan Yu, but Cao Cao said: "He is also loyal and righteous, and it is useless to chase him." These words not only showed Cao Cao's wisdom, but also reflected his respect for Guan Yu.

However, as the situation changed, the relationship between Cao Cao and Guan Yu gradually deteriorated. In the sixteenth year of Jian'an, Cao Cao attacked Hanzhong, and Guan Yu took the opportunity to go north to attack Cao Cao's rear. This action made Cao Cao very angry, and he said to the generals around him: "I should have treated him with sincerity, but why is this so? "

Despite this, Cao Cao still maintained a high opinion of Guan Yu's talent. He used Guan Yu as an example in the army many times to motivate his generals. Cao Cao often said: "If you can be loyal and brave about half of Yun Chang, why worry about the injustice of the world?" This not only reflects Cao Cao's appreciation of Guan Yu, but also reflects his expectations of the generals under his command.

In the twenty-fourth year of Jian'an, Guan Yu was captured by Sun Quan's general Lü Meng and finally died. When the news reached Cao Cao's ears, instead of being happy, he felt deeply regretful. Cao Cao said to the advisers around him: "Although Yun Chang is an enemy general, the name of loyalty and righteousness is enough to last for a hundred generations. It's a pity that such a talent was buried in the hands of villains. "

Guan Yu's death made Cao Cao feel once again that talents are rare. He once said to Sima Yi: "I have used people all my life, I have won Chen Gong and lost it, and I have Guan Yu and lost it, all of which are days." This sentence not only expressed Cao Cao's regret for Guan Yu, but also reflected his helplessness about fate.

In Cao Cao's later years, whenever he talked about the past, he would always mention Guan Yu. Once, he said to the generals: "I have known countless people in my life, but Guan Yu is the only one, and he can be described as a perfect person." It's a pity that these talents are not used by me after all. These words are not only the highest praise for Guan Yu, but also one of the biggest regrets in Cao Cao's life.

Guan Yu's talent and character became an important criterion for Cao Cao's selection of generals in the future. He often admonished his generals: "You must learn from Guan Yu's loyalty and bravery, and you must learn from his gratitude and retribution." This not only reflects Cao Cao's evaluation of Guan Yu, but also reflects his expectations of the ideal general.

Many years later, whenever Guan Yu is mentioned, Cao Cao will still be full of emotion. He once said to Chen Qun: "The heroes of the world are only the kings and the ears." Although Yun Chang has passed away, his name of loyalty will surely shine with the sun and the moon. These words not only expressed Cao Cao's recognition of Guan Yu's talent, but also expressed his admiration for Guan Yu's personality.

Fifth, Cao Cao's way of employing people: the key to achieving hegemony

As one of the most outstanding politicians and military strategists during the Three Kingdoms period, Cao Cao's way of employing people is exemplary. He was not only good at recognizing people, but also knew how to use people, which became the key factor for him to rise in the troubled times and eventually lay the foundation of the Wei state.

In the first year of Jian'an, Cao Cao recruited talents from all over the world and recruited wise men. He does not stick to one pattern in selecting talents, and not only attaches importance to people with both ability and political integrity, but also does not exclude talented people without virtue. Cao Cao once said: "Only talent moves, and only virtue is supplemented." This sentence fully reflects his concept of employing people.

When selecting talents, Cao Cao often assesses them personally. He instituted the "Three-Question Tongbai" examination, which examined the literary, political, and military talents of the candidates. In this way, Cao Cao discovered many outstanding talents, such as Sima Yi and Chen Qun. These talents later became the mainstay of the Wei state.

Cao Cao not only attaches importance to the selection of talents, but also pays more attention to the cultivation and use of talents. He often said: "For the way of the general, the heart should be cured first." Therefore, he paid special attention to the cultivation of the character of generals. Whenever a general made a meritorious service, Cao Cao would personally reward them, but at the same time, he would also warn them not to be complacent.

In terms of employing people, Cao Cao's biggest characteristic is that he knows people well. He is able to arrange the most suitable position according to each person's strengths. For example, he appointed Xun Yu to join the army and be in charge of military and political affairs; Guo Jia was appointed as a military advisor and was responsible for military planning; Xiahoudun was appointed as a former general to command the front army. This precise allocation of talents made Cao Cao's army invincible.

Cao Cao also attaches great importance to the recommendation and recommendation of talents. He encourages his subordinates to recommend talent, and often takes them on board. For example, Xu Chu was recommended to Cao Cao by Xiahoudun. When Cao Cao saw Xu Chu, he immediately realized that he was a rare brave general, so he reused him, and Xu Chu later became a general under Cao Cao.

In terms of dealing with generals, Cao Cao also has unique insights. He believes that as long as the generals have talent, they should be given opportunities. For example, he reused the general Zhang Liao and gave him a high degree of trust. Zhang Liao later became the pillar of the Wei State and made many military exploits.

However, Cao Cao's approach to employing people was not perfect. He also made mistakes, such as killing the famous general Yoshimoto by gullible slander. This incident later became a big regret for Cao Cao. However, Cao Cao was able to learn from his mistakes and treat talent more cautiously.

In the fifteenth year of Jian'an, after Cao Cao pacified Hebei, he once again recruited talents on a large scale. He sent people around to search for hermits and personally wrote letters inviting them. This operation replenished the Wei state with a large number of talents and laid the foundation for later development.

Cao Cao also attaches great importance to the cultivation of talents. He set up the "Cao Family School" and personally taught the younger generation. Here, not only Cao Cao's children were educated, but also the children of many generals had the opportunity to learn. This cultivated a large number of outstanding reserve talents for the Wei State.

In terms of treating heroes, Cao Cao also has a unique approach. He rewarded the heroes and prevented them from becoming complacent. For example, when Xu Chu made great contributions in the Battle of Guandu, Cao Cao not only rewarded him with money, but also wrote eulogies for him himself. But at the same time, Cao Cao also warned Xu Chu to remain humble and not to be proud.

Cao Cao's way of employing people is also reflected in his cherishing of talents. Even if a person has made a mistake, as long as it is not a big mistake, Cao Cao often gives him a chance to mend his ways. For example, when Xun Yu was demoted for improper admonition, Cao Cao did not abandon him completely, but gave him a chance to make amends.

In his later years, Cao Cao paid more attention to cultivating successors. He valued not only his own offspring, but also other talented young people. For example, he particularly valued Sima Yi, believing him to be a rare talent, and entrusted him with important tasks many times. This kind of foresight laid the foundation for the long-term peace and stability of the Wei state.

Cao Cao's way of employing people not only influenced the Wei state, but also had a profound impact on the entire Chinese history. Many politicians and military strategists in later generations drew wisdom from Cao Cao's way of employing people. For example, Li Shimin, Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, has repeatedly praised Cao Cao's way of employing people and applied it in practice.

In general, Cao Cao's way of employing people can be summarized as: recruiting talents, knowing people well, strict assessment, and attaching importance to training. This way of employing people not only helped Cao Cao rise in the troubled times, but also laid a solid talent foundation for the prosperity of Wei. It was precisely because of so many outstanding talents that Wei was able to occupy an advantage in the situation of the Three Kingdoms, and finally laid the foundation for the Sima clan to usurp Wei.