Kong Guang vs Shang Yang

Kong Guang was appointed as chancellor (chengxiang) of the Han dynasty under Emperor Ai. As a descendant of Confucius, his appointment symbolized the continued influence of Confucian scholarship in the imperial government.

Kong Guang counseled Emperor Ai against abdicating the throne in favor of his male favorite Dong Xian. He argued that such an act would violate the principles of the Mandate of Heaven and destabilize the state.

Kong Guang opposed the growing power of the regent Wang Mang, who later usurped the Han throne. He attempted to rally Confucian scholars against Wang Mang's reforms but was ultimately sidelined.

Kong Guang was forced into exile by Wang Mang after opposing his policies. He died shortly thereafter, marking the end of a prominent Confucian voice in the late Western Han court.

Shang Yang implemented his first set of Legalist reforms in the Qin state, including the abolition of aristocratic privileges, promotion of agriculture and military merit, and the introduction of a strict legal code. These reforms centralized power and increased state efficiency.

Shang Yang introduced further reforms, including the reorganization of the state into administrative counties, standardization of weights and measures, and the promotion of collective responsibility. These measures strengthened Qin's military and bureaucratic capacity.

Shang Yang led a Qin army to victory against the Wei state at the Battle of Anyi. The victory captured the Wei capital and forced Wei to cede territory, significantly expanding Qin's power and demonstrating the effectiveness of his military reforms.

After the death of Duke Xiao of Qin, Shang Yang was accused of treason by the new ruler, King Huiwen. He attempted to flee but was captured and executed by dismemberment (chariot tearing). His family was also executed, ending his influence.