Ma Su

Ma Su ( Chinese  馬 謖  /  马 谡 , Pinyin Mǎ Sù ), stylized Youchang (幼 常; * 190 ; † 228 ) was a strategist of the Shu Han at the time of the Three Kingdoms in ancient China.

Life

Like his four brothers, Ma Su came from Yicheng (宜城). The Ma brothers were known for their intelligence, especially Ma Su's older brother Ma Liang stood out. The two served Liu Bei from around 205 when he was still a guest of Liu Biao .

Zhuge Liang was impressed with Ma Su's knowledge and strategies. Liu Bei warned him until his death ( 223 ) that Ma Su was not as intelligent as he seemed. Even so, Zhuge Liang continued to hold onto Ma Su and included him deeply in his plans.

When Zhuge Liang was preparing his Northern Expeditions against the Wei , many believed Generals Wei Yan and Wu Yi (吴 懿) to be the most suitable commanders, but Zhuge Liang entrusted Ma Su instead.

Ma Su opposed Wei General Zhang He at the Battle of Jieting , but allowed himself to be surrounded by him and severely beaten. Zhuge Liang was disappointed and angry and had Ma Su imprisoned to be executed later, but Ma Su fell ill and died in the dungeon.