Pyrrhus of Epirus vs Tian Yu

Pyrrhus defeated a Roman army at Heraclea in southern Italy. He used war elephants to break the Roman lines. The victory was costly, with heavy losses to his own forces, establishing the pattern of Pyrrhic victories.

Pyrrhus again defeated the Romans at Asculum, but suffered such heavy casualties that he reportedly said 'Another such victory and we are lost.' This battle gave rise to the term 'Pyrrhic victory.'

Pyrrhus crossed to Sicily to aid the Greek city-states against Carthage. He captured several Carthaginian strongholds, including Eryx, and nearly drove the Carthaginians from the island. However, he failed to capture Lilybaeum.

Pyrrhus fought his final battle in Italy against the Romans at Beneventum. The battle was indecisive, but Pyrrhus's losses forced him to abandon Italy and return to Epirus. This ended his Italian campaign.

Pyrrhus was killed during street fighting in Argos, Greece, while attempting to capture the city. An old woman threw a roof tile at him, stunning him, allowing an Argive soldier to kill him. His death ended his ambitions.

Tian Yu led Wei forces against the Xianbei tribes raiding the northern frontier. He employed a strategy of building forts and using cavalry to intercept raiders, stabilizing the border region.

Tian Yu defended Yanmen Commandery against a Xianbei invasion. He used a feigned retreat to lure the enemy into an ambush, killing their leader and scattering the tribe. This victory secured the northern frontier for years.

Tian Yu was appointed Governor of You Province, overseeing Wei's northern territories. He implemented policies to integrate non-Chinese tribes into the Wei state, reducing border conflicts through diplomacy and trade.

Tian Yu supported Sima Yi's coup against Cao Shuang. He led troops to secure key positions in the capital, ensuring the success of the coup. This event marked the rise of the Sima family's control over Wei.