Five Hegemons

The Hegemons mobilized the remnants of the Zhou empire, according to shared mutual political and martial interests.

五 (wu) literally means 'five', but in the context of ancient Chinese also has a more generally qualitative and less precisely quantitative use, implying completeness.

During the Spring and Autumn period the reigns of each hegemon tended to correspond with the zenith of their state's power.

Whilst its predecessor, the Western Zhou dynasty, was also feudal in nature, the centre was strong enough to command the obedience of most of its vassals, as well as to maintain a central army.

[8] Duke Zhuang of Zheng (鄭莊公)[9] and Fuchai King of Wu (吳王夫差)[10] were also amongst the contenders aside of the seven rulers mentioned above.