Lin Xiangru vs Publius Valerius Publicola

Lin Xiangru was sent as an envoy to the Qin court, where King Zhaoxiang of Qin demanded the He Shi Bi jade. Lin threatened to smash the jade and himself, forcing Qin to back down, and successfully returned the jade to Zhao.

At the Mianchi meeting, Lin Xiangru forced the King of Qin to perform a drumming ceremony, humiliating him. This act preserved Zhao's dignity and prevented Qin from gaining diplomatic advantage.

Lin Xiangru was appointed chief minister (shangqing) of Zhao, ranking above the general Lian Po. His promotion was based on his diplomatic successes, and he later reconciled with Lian Po for the good of the state.

Publicola enacted the Valerian Laws, which granted Roman citizens the right of appeal (provocatio) against the death penalty imposed by a magistrate. These laws also made it a capital offense to attempt to become king, reinforcing the Republic's anti-monarchical principles.

Publicola voluntarily reduced the powers of the consulship, including lowering the fasces before the people and allowing appeal against consular decisions. These actions earned him the cognomen 'Publicola' (friend of the people) and set precedents for limited executive authority.

Publius Valerius Publicola, as a leading senator, helped Lucius Junius Brutus expel the Tarquins and establish the Republic. He was elected consul suffectus after Brutus's death and played a key role in drafting the early laws and institutions of the new Republic.

Publicola led Roman forces in a war against the Sabines and the Etruscan city of Veii. He achieved victories that secured Roman territory and celebrated a triumph, further consolidating the Republic's military position and his own reputation.

Publicola dedicated the Temple of Jupiter Feretrius on the Capitoline Hill, housing the spolia opima taken by Romulus. This temple became a site for the dedication of spoils from enemy commanders killed in single combat, reinforcing Roman military traditions.