Liu Zhang (Han prince)

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This article is about the Western Han prince. For the late Eastern Han warlord, see Liu Zhang (warlord).

Liu Zhang (劉章) (d. 177 BC), formally Prince Jing of Chengyang (城陽景王), sometimes known in later historical accounts and literature by his earlier title of Marquess of Zhuxu (朱虛侯), was a key figure in the anti-Lü clan conspiracy during the Lü Clan Disturbance of 180 BC. In 186 BC, Grand Empress Dowager Lü created him Marquess of Zhuxu and gave him the daughter of her nephew Lü Lu in marriage. She also summoned him to the capital Chang'an to serve as an imperial guard commander.

After the Lü Clan Disturbance, Liu Zhang was initially promised the Principality of Zhao for his role in the conspiracy, but after Emperor Wen became emperor, he became aware that Liu Zhang initially wanted to make his brother Liu Xiang, the Prince of Qi, emperor, and was displeased. He therefore denied Liu Zhang the larger Principality of Zhao and only created Liu Zhang the Prince of Chengyang (a smaller principality carved out of his brother's principality) in 178 BC. He was well-loved in his principality for what was seen as a heroic role in overthrowing the Lüs, and the people of the principality worshipped him as a god after his death.