In the ancient history of China, the Three Kingdoms period was an era full of wars and wisdom. During this period, many outstanding politicians, military generals, and strategists emerged. Among them, Sima Yi, as an important advisor of the Cao Wei dynasty, eventually succeeded in usurping the throne of Cao Wei and became the founding emperor of the Jin dynasty. However, it is intriguing why Sima Yi only reigned as emperor for three years? What stories lie behind this? This article will explore this issue from multiple perspectives.

I. The Rise of Sima Yi

Sima Yi was born in Wenxian, Heyi (today's Wenxian, Henan). He followed Cao Cao in his early years, participating in campaigns across the country, and gradually became an important advisor of Cao Wei. He accumulated rich political experience and human resources within Cao Wei, laying the foundation for his future usurpation. After the death of Cao Pi, Sima Yi continued to assist his son, Cao Rui, and gradually consolidated his position in the court.

II. The Truth Behind the "Three-Year Pact"

The claim that Sima Yi only reigned as emperor for three years is actually a misunderstanding. In fact, Sima Yi had already grasped the reins of government in the late Cao Wei dynasty, but it was until 265 AD that his son, Sima Yan, officially usurped the throne and established the Jin dynasty. By then, Sima Yi had been deceased for many years. Therefore, Sima Yi never truly reigned as emperor, but rather his descendants inherited his will and completed the usurpation of Cao Wei.

So, where does the "three-year pact" originate? This primarily stems from historical legends and novel descriptions. In these stories, Sima Yi is portrayed as a cunning and manipulative figure who made a three-year pact with his sons before his death, instructing them to wait for three years after his demise, observe the situation of the country, and then decide whether to usurp the throne. However, such descriptions are not actual historical events but rather the imagination and exaggeration of later generations towards Sima Yi's image.

III. Conclusion

In summary, the claim that Sima Yi only reigned as emperor for three years is indeed a misunderstanding. Sima Yi himself never truly reigned as emperor, but rather his descendants completed the usurpation of Cao Wei. The "three-year pact" originates primarily from historical legends and novel descriptions, not actual historical events. Through understanding this period of history, we can gain a better understanding of Sima Yi, this outstanding politician and strategist, and the role he played in the late Cao Wei dynasty. At the same time, it also reminds us to discern between historical facts and legends when reading history, adopting a more objective and rational attitude towards understanding and evaluating historical figures.

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