Sima Yi, styled Zhongda, was a renowned politician and military strategist of the Cao Wei kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period in China. He served in important positions during the reigns of Cao Cao, Cao Pi, and Cao Rui, making significant contributions to the stability and development of the Cao Wei regime. However, after the death of Cao Cao, why did Sima Yi choose to assist Cao Pi instead of Cao Zhi, who was favored by Cao Cao? This article will explore this question.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand Cao Cao's attitude towards Cao Pi and Cao Zhi. As the founder of Cao Wei, Cao Cao placed great emphasis on the education and cultivation of his sons. In Cao Cao's eyes, Cao Zhi possessed outstanding talent and literary accomplishments, hence he had high expectations for him. Nevertheless, as the eldest son, Cao Pi exhibited a calm and steady demeanor and excelled in handling administrative affairs, making him a more suitable candidate for the throne according to Cao Cao's standards. In his later years, Cao Cao gradually favored Cao Pi as the heir to succeed him.

Secondly, let's analyze Sima Yi's position. Sima Yi held various positions under Cao Cao and enjoyed his trust. However, following Cao Cao's death, Sima Yi faced a difficult choice: whether to support Cao Zhi, who was favored by Cao Cao, or Cao Pi, who had already ascended the throne. From Sima Yi's perspective, he leaned towards supporting Cao Pi. The reasons for this decision are as follows:

1. Legitimacy: As the eldest son of Cao Cao, Cao Pi's succession to the throne carried legitimacy. In the social context of that time, respecting tradition and family order was paramount. As a politician, Sima Yi naturally did not want to violate this principle.

2. Stability: Sima Yi was well aware of the brutality of political struggles and desired to continue to exercise his talents under the new emperor. Cao Pi, as the new emperor, had yet to firmly establish his position and required the support of more ministers. By choosing to assist Cao Pi, Sima Yi secured a solid footing for himself politically.

3. Personal Relationships: Sima Yi enjoyed a harmonious relationship with Cao Pi, having collaborated extensively with him during Cao Cao's lifetime. Sima Yi believed that assisting Cao Pi would better fulfill his political aspirations.

In summary, Sima Yi's decision to support Cao Pi over Cao Zhi, who was favored by Cao Cao, was primarily based on considerations of legitimacy, stability, and personal relationships. This choice solidified Sima Yi's position within the Cao Wei regime and laid the foundation for his subsequent political and military actions.

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