Modu Chanyu

Modu Chanyu was the Xiongnu ruler who founded their empire in the late third century BCE and consolidated power across the Eurasian steppe.

Xiongnu: The Xiongnu were a confederation of nomadic peoples who dominated the eastern Eurasian steppe from the third century BCE. Modu's rule turned this confederation into a powerful empire.
Steppe nomadism: Steppe nomadism is a pastoral way of life based on moving herds across grassland environments. Mobile pastoralism supplied the horses and mobility behind Modu's campaigns.
Sima Qian: Sima Qian was a Han dynasty historian and author of the Records of the Grand Historian. His history provides the fullest surviving narrative of Modu's rise.
Battle of Baideng: The Battle of Baideng was the 200 BCE confrontation in which Xiongnu forces surrounded Liu Bang near Pingcheng. The encounter demonstrated Modu's ability to threaten the Han emperor directly.
Touman Chanyu: Touman was a Xiongnu ruler and Modu Chanyu's father. The succession conflict with Touman marked the beginning of Modu's rise.
Composite bow: A composite bow is a compact bow made from layers of materials such as wood, horn, and sinew. Mounted archers could use this powerful weapon while riding.
Liu Bang: Liu Bang, known posthumously as Emperor Gaozu of Han, founded the Han dynasty. His defeat and encirclement at Baideng exposed Han China's vulnerability to Modu.
Heqin: Heqin was a Han policy of diplomatic marriage and gifts used to manage relations with Xiongnu rulers. After Baideng, Han leaders used this policy to reduce the threat Modu posed.
Xiongnu Empire: The Xiongnu Empire was a steppe confederation that challenged Han China and controlled territories across Inner Asia. Modu established the imperial structure that this name denotes.
Mounted archery: Mounted archery is the practice of shooting a bow from horseback. It gave Xiongnu forces the speed and range central to steppe warfare.

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