Guan Zhong vs Zi Chan

As prime minister of Qi, Guan Zhong implemented state monopolies on salt and iron, standardized currency, and established a system of taxation based on land quality. These reforms made Qi the wealthiest state in China and funded Duke Huan's hegemony.

Guan Zhong organized a meeting of feudal lords at Juancheng where Duke Huan of Qi was recognized as the first official hegemon (ba) of the Spring and Autumn period. This established the hegemonic system that maintained order among the states.

Guan Zhong led Qi forces to repel the Di (Xianyun) nomads who were raiding the northern states of Xing and Wey. The campaign restored order and demonstrated Qi's role as protector of the Chinese states against barbarian incursions.

Zi Chan implemented a series of administrative and economic reforms in the state of Zheng. He reorganized land ownership, standardized taxation, and promoted trade. These reforms strengthened the state and improved its finances, but also faced opposition from conservative nobles.

Zi Chan served as the chief minister of Zheng, a small state caught between larger powers. He skillfully navigated diplomatic relations with the states of Jin and Chu, maintaining Zheng's independence through a policy of balance and tribute. His diplomacy was praised by Confucius.

Zi Chan, a minister in the state of Zheng, ordered the casting of a set of penal laws onto a bronze tripod. This was the first known written law code in Chinese history. The code made laws public and accessible, challenging the traditional aristocratic monopoly on legal knowledge.