Antoninus Pius vs Di Xin of Shang

Antoninus Pius, as governor of Asia, was involved in suppressing the Bar Kokhba revolt in Judea. The revolt was crushed with heavy casualties, and Jews were expelled from Jerusalem. This event occurred before his accession to the throne.

Antoninus Pius became Roman emperor upon the death of Hadrian. His reign was characterized by internal stability, legal reforms, and economic prosperity, with no major military campaigns. He maintained the borders through diplomacy and client kingdoms.

Following Hadrian's death, Antoninus Pius adopted Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus as his sons and heirs, as required by Hadrian's will. This ensured a smooth succession and continued the system of adoptive emperors.

Antoninus Pius ordered the construction of a turf and stone fortification across the narrowest part of Scotland, north of Hadrian's Wall. The wall marked the northernmost boundary of the Roman Empire in Britain and was manned for about 20 years before being abandoned.

Di Xin allegedly built a pool filled with wine and hung meat in trees, creating a 'wine pool and meat forest' for extravagant orgies. This story, recorded in later texts, exemplifies his reputation as a decadent tyrant.

Di Xin imprisoned King Wen of Zhou at Youli, a Shang prison. During his captivity, King Wen is said to have studied the I Ching. Di Xin later released him after receiving tribute, a decision that allowed Zhou to continue its rise.

Di Xin's Shang army was defeated by King Wu of Zhou at the Battle of Muye. The Shang forces, including slave soldiers who defected, were routed. This battle ended the Shang dynasty and established Zhou rule over China.

After the defeat at Muye, Di Xin retreated to the Deer Terrace Pavilion, adorned himself with jade, and set the building on fire, burning himself to death. This act became a symbol of his tyranny and the Shang dynasty's fall.