16 Facts About Liu Can

Liu Can was Liu Cong's son by his first wife, Empress Huyan, but was not created crown prince when Liu Cong became emperor in 310 after seizing the throne from his brother Liu He, because Liu Cong had promised to and did make his brother Liu Ai, the son of his father Liu Yuan's second wife Empress Dan, crown prince.

Liu Can was created the Prince of He'nei and given a substantial military command.

Liu Can was one of Han's major generals early in Liu Cong's reign, along with his father's cousin Liu Yao the Prince of Shi'an, Wang Mi, and Shi Le.

Liu Can appeared to be a competent general, although not as capable as Liu Yao or Shi Le, and he had mild successes in battle, although his campaigns were largely inconclusive.

Liu Can was considered, during his youth, to be capable in both governance and in military matters.

However, after Liu Cong made him prime minister and created the Prince of Jin in 314, he was described to have become arrogant and abusive of his powers.

Liu Can became very trusting of his father-in-law Jin Zhun, who was treacherous.

Liu Can believed them, particularly after they produced false evidence that convinced Liu Cong as well.

In spring 317, Liu Can finally readied his plan to eliminate his uncle Crown Prince Ai.

Liu Can falsely informed Crown Prince Ai that Pingyang was under attack and that his subordinates should arm themselves to prepare for the attack.

When Di and Qiang tribes subsequently revolted due to the treatment of their chiefs, Liu Can Cong sent Jin to suppress them, and Jin was successful.

Liu Cong died in summer 318, and Liu Can ascended the throne.

Liu Can created his wife, Crown Princess Jin, empress, and his son Liu Yuangong crown prince.

Liu Can became sorely reliant on his father-in-law Jin Zhun, trusting him over all others, including his brothers.

Liu Can further considered attacking the domain of the general Shi Le, who controlled the eastern realm, believing Shi to be treasonous.

Meanwhile, after Liu Can killed those high-level officials, the trusted Jin started a coup and killed Liu Can, and then massacred the imperial Liu clan.