Zhao Gao, a powerful official in the late Qin Dynasty, was famous for his intrigues. During the reign of Qin Er Shi, he launched a shocking coup d'état at Shadu, attempting to seize the throne. So, what were the purposes of Zhao Gao's coup d'état at Shadu? This article will explore Zhao Gao's motives based on historical materials.

Firstly, consolidating power and status. Zhao Gao's position of power in the late Qin Dynasty was not stable. Although he held important positions such as Zhongcheling and Langzhongling, he did not hold actual power. To consolidate his position, Zhao Gao needed to change the political landscape of the Qin Dynasty through a coup d'état, making himself the actual ruler. The coup d'état at Shadu was a carefully planned action by Zhao Gao to achieve this goal.

Secondly, overthrowing Qin Er Shi. Qin Er Shi, Hu Hai, was the son of Qin Shi Huang. During his reign, the country's political corruption was severe, and the people suffered. As a powerful official, Zhao Gao was deeply aware that the decline of the Qin Dynasty was closely related to the rule of Qin Er Shi. Therefore, one of the important purposes of his coup d'état at Shadu was to overthrow Qin Er Shi, so that he could better control the state power.

Thirdly, establishing a new regime. Another purpose of Zhao Gao's coup d'état at Shadu was to establish a new regime. He hoped to use the coup to push himself onto the throne and become the new emperor. This way, he could legitimately grasp the power of the state and achieve his political ambitions. However, due to various reasons, Zhao Gao's plan ultimately failed.

Fourthly, eliminating political opponents. In the political struggles of the late Qin Dynasty, Zhao Gao faced political opponents from various quarters. To consolidate his position, Zhao Gao needed to eliminate these political opponents through a coup d'état. The coup d'état at Shadu was one of the means adopted by Zhao Gao to achieve this goal. Through the coup, Zhao Gao successfully weakened other forces and consolidated his position of power.

In summary, Zhao Gao's coup d'état at Shadu had four main purposes: consolidating power and status, overthrowing Qin Er Shi, establishing a new regime, and eliminating political opponents. Although Zhao Gao's coup ultimately failed, his ambition and means still left a profound lesson for future generations.

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