[4] – 1 August 223),[a] courtesy name Ziwen, nickname "The Yellow Goatee" (黃鬚兒), was a prince of the state of Cao Wei during the Three Kingdoms period of China.

He also served as a general under his father, having led his troops to significant victories against Wuhuan incursions on the northern frontier.

Once, his father sent him to the imperial university to study, but Cao Zhang lamented to his aides, saying a real man should command the army to make a name for himself instead of becoming a Academician (博士; boshi).

[6] When the Wuhuan tribe rebelled on the northern frontier in c.May 218, Cao Zhang, holding the rank of Northern General of the Household, acting on the authority of General of the Resolute Cavalry (驍騎將軍), led a force of 1,000 infantry and several hundreds of cavalry from the central government to suppress the revolt.

Outnumbered by the enemy, Cao Zhang took up a passive stance and defended the vital passes and routes.

Cao Zhang then led his force out in pursuit, displaying great valour in the ensuing battles.

[citation needed] Cao Zhang then hurried west to take part in the Hanzhong Campaign against Liu Bei.

In the following year, Cao Zhang died due to sickness while attending court at the capital, most likely poisoned to prevent any contenders to the stolen throne.

The match was very close in the middle game when Cao Pi's servants brought some prunes, some that were poisoned.

Empress Bian got to the scene on her bare feet and tried to search for water to flush down the poison that was now in Cao Zhang's body.

Jia Kui then went out of the city to meet Cao Zhang and ask him if he came as a mourner or a rival claimant to the throne.