Cao Wei

Cao Wei was an ancient Chinese state, one of the three major states during the Three Kingdoms period. Established in 220 AD by Cao Pi, it was built upon the foundations laid by his father, Cao Cao, at the end of the Han dynasty. The state's capital was initially Xuchang, later moving to Luoyang. The name Wei became associated with Cao Cao in 213 AD when he was named Duke of Wei, and became the state's name when Cao Pi declared himself emperor in 220 AD. Historians often add "Cao" to distinguish it from other states named Wei. The ruling Cao family's authority weakened significantly after 249 AD, with the Sima family gradually consolidating power. In 266 AD, Sima Yan forced the last Wei emperor to abdicate, establishing the Jin dynasty.