The Three Strategies of the Duke of Yellow Rock: One of the Seven Military Strategy Classics of Ancient China

The Three Strategies of the Duke of Yellow Rock is a text on military strategy that was historically associated with the Han dynasty general Zhang Liang. The text's literal name is "The Three Strategies of Huang Shigong", based on the traditional account of the book's transmission to Zhang. Modern scholars note the similarity between its philosophy and the philosophy of Huang-Lao Daoism. It is one of China's Seven Military Classics. As its title would suggest, the Three Strategies of Huang Shigong is organized into three sections, which can be interpreted as a hierarchy of importance or as simple indicators of position in the work. The work itself states that all three types of strategy are necessary for different styles of government. Much of the work is concerned with administrative control, but some important tactical concepts are also developed. Generals are placed in a high position, and must be unquestioned once they assume command. Attacks should be swift and decisive.