Cao Chong

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Cao Chong (196–208), courtesy name Cangshu, was the eldest son of the warlord Cao Cao and his wife Lady Huan. He was a child prodigy known for his mature intelligence from a young age and was admired for his kindness and fairness.

One famous story shows his cleverness. When Sun Quan sent an elephant as a gift, no one could weigh it. Cao Chong suggested a buoyant solution: put the elephant on a boat, mark the water level, and then replace the elephant with other objects until the boat sinks to the same level. The total weight of those objects would equal the elephant’s weight.

Another tale shows his prudent, thoughtful nature. When Cao Cao’s saddle was damaged by rats in storage, Cao Chong advised waiting a few days and then acted in a way that convinced others there was no need for punishment. His father respected his judgment and avoided harsh consequences.

Cao Chong was loved for his intelligence and compassionate attitude. Cao Cao hoped he would be his heir, but Cao Chong died suddenly at age 12, which deeply grieved his father. Cao Pi later noted that Cao Chong’s death changed the line of succession.

After his death, Cao Chong’s heir was his nephew Cao Cong, the son of Cao Chong’s younger brother Cao Ju. In 217, Cao Cong was made the Marquis of Deng. When Cao Wei was established in 221, Cao Chong received the posthumous title Marquis Ai of Deng, later elevated to Duke Ai of Deng, and in 231 he was honored as Prince Ai of Deng.