The Spring and Autumn Period was an era of wars and transformations in Chinese history, during which the "Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn" were the most prominent feudal lords of the time. However, there are different historical opinions regarding why Duke Xiang of Song was included in the list of the Five Hegemons and whether the State of Song truly dominated during the Spring and Autumn Period. This article will explore Duke Xiang's hegemony status and the strength of the State of Song.

Firstly, the Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn are generally referred to as Duke Huan of Qi, Duke Wen of Jin, King Zhuang of Chu, King Helu of Wu, and King Goujian of Yue. These five feudal lords were known as hegemons due to their powerful countries and control over other smaller states. However, the inclusion of Duke Xiang of Song in this list is not without controversy. On one hand, the State of Song did achieve a certain level of prosperity during Duke Xiang's reign, and Duke Xiang himself was renowned for his benevolent actions. On the other hand, compared to the other hegemons, Duke Xiang's influence and control seemed less prominent.

Duke Xiang, whose name was Chu Jiu, was the monarch of the State of Song during the Spring and Autumn Period. During his reign, he implemented a series of reform measures, strengthened centralization, and enhanced the strength of the State of Song. Additionally, Duke Xiang governed the country with courtesy and propriety. His actions of "not attacking an unformed formation" and "not capturing elderly soldiers" were praised as exemplars by later generations. These actions reflected his benevolent heart and were one of the reasons why he was considered a hegemon.

However, despite Duke Xiang's remarkable personal qualities and achievements, the State of Song did not achieve true hegemony status under his leadership. In the power struggles between the major states during the Spring and Autumn Period, the State of Song was more often in a passive position, rather than a dominant power. Therefore, Duke Xiang's inclusion in the list of the Five Hegemons was more of a respect for his personal character rather than recognition of the State of Song's actual hegemony status.

In summary, Duke Xiang was respected as one of the Five Hegemons of the Spring and Autumn Period due to his benevolent actions and personal charm, but this does not mean that the State of Song truly achieved hegemony status under his leadership. The State of Song played more of a role as a middle-sized power in the international relations of the Spring and Autumn Period, rather than a true controller. In evaluating Duke Xiang, we should focus more on his personal qualities and contributions to his country, rather than simply equating him with the other hegemons of the Spring and Autumn Period.

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