[Solved] Pan Chao: The Chinese General Who Defeated Kanishka

Which Chinese general had defeated Kanishka?

[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2003]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Ancient history witnessed significant military clashes between the expanding Han Empire of China and the Kushan Empire of India over control of Central Asian trade routes.

Authentic Source Evidence

According to the Hou Hanshu (Book of the Later Han), the Chinese general Pan Chao (Ban Chao) defeated a Kushan army of 70,000 men sent by Kanishka (or his predecessor) in 90 AD.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Pan Chao used a scorched-earth policy to repel the Kushans near Khotan in Central Asia.

Logic 2: This victory established Han control over the 'Western Regions' (Tarim Basin) and turned the Kushans into temporary tributaries of the Han.

Logic 3: Ho-Ti (Option D): Was the Han Emperor during this period, but Pan Chao was the active general on the field.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Where did the battle between Pan Chao and the Kushans take place?"

It took place in Central Asia, near the region of Khotan.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"This defeat checked the Kushan expansion into China, though Kanishka later successfully established a vast empire covering parts of Central Asia and North India."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Kushan Empire 5 Silk Road 4