Overview
Ashina Simo, a grandson of Taspar Qaghan, was made Qilibi Qaghan by Emperor Taizong in 639. He was to lead the Eastern Türks back north of the Yellow River as a buffer against the Xueyantuo, who now ruled the Mongolian steppe.
Rise to Power
He had served the Tang since 630 as Prince of Huaihua. After a Türk plot against Taizong in 639, the emperor sent the Türks out of China under Simo.
Rule and Achievements
- Set up his headquarters at Dingxiang in 641
- Was attacked by the Xueyantuo in 641 and withdrew inside the Great Wall; Tang forces drove the Xueyantuo back
Legacy
Around 645 his people abandoned him and moved south of the Yellow River. Simo returned to the Tang, was wounded in Taizong's Goguryeo campaign, and died soon after. He was buried near the tomb of Empress Zhangsun.