Zhang Qian returns to Chang'an
He returns after thirteen years with one surviving companion, having failed to secure the alliance but carrying the first detailed Chinese account of Ferghana, Bactria, Parthia and the peoples between. The report drives the Han westward expansion that follows.
Historical — it happened, and the record is settled.
Subjects
- Zhang Qian · person · not located
- Chang'an · city · China
- Horses · trade_good · not located
Evidence
Verified — Every field is supported by a cited authoritative source.
Shiji, chapter 123: Account of Dayuan
The earliest and closest account of Zhang Qian's missions, the peoples and kingdoms he reported from Ferghana, Bactria and Parthia, and the Ferghana horses that prompted the Han campaigns of 104 to 101 BCE. Sima Qian was writing within living memory of the events.
Sima Qian, Han court archivist · ~94 BCE · Verified
Compiled c. 94 BCE
Recorded on Zhang Qian
- Zhang Qian is sent west by Emperor Wu
- Zhang Qian returns to Chang'an
- Han campaigns against Dayuan for the Ferghana horses
Related
Related because they share a subject in the Atlas — never because the text looks similar.
- Han campaigns against Dayuan for the Ferghana horses · 104-101 BCE
- Zhang Qian is sent west by Emperor Wu · 138 BCE