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A famous general of the Eastern Han Dynasty.

In the first century AD, Xiongnu frequently invaded the borders of the Han Empire and finally controlled the Tarim region. Ban Chao, the cavalry commander of the Han Dynasty, not only restored the Tarim basin but also maintained the area as west as Kashgar under the control of the Han Dynasty during his career there.

Having gotten great achievements in defeating the Xiongnus, Ban Chao was given another task of subjugating the kingdoms of the Silk Road, which had allied with the Xiongnu against China. Employed cunning persuasion and military menace at the same time, Ban Chao, the experienced diplomat and resourceful soldier, finally made Loulan, Khotan and Kashgar allied with the Han Dynasty, which ensured the long peace and smoothness along the route and reopened the southern Silk Road to trade.

Ban Chao remained in the Western Regions for 31 years, suppressing rebellions and establishing diplomatic relations with over 50 states there. At the age of 70 years old, Ban Chao returned to Luoyang (capital of the Eastern Han Dynasty) and before long died there.

More travellers:  Zhang Qian

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