Final answer:
The Xiongnu confederation and the Han Dynasty had a multifaceted relationship marked initially by tributes and appeasement, and later by military campaigns led by Wudi. Wudi's strategic approach, including taking control of key trade routes and exploiting internal divisions within the Xiongnu, shifted the balance of power ultimately in favor of the Han Dynasty.
Step-by-step explanation:
The interactions between the Han Dynasty and the Xiongnu confederation were a complex mix of diplomacy, trade, and warfare. Initially, the Han emperors used tribute payments as a means of appeasement, hoping to pacify the Xiongnu with gifts of silk, liquor, rice, and even marriages. However, this approach proved ineffective as raids continued. The token of peace became essentially a bribe to the nomadic tribes.
The turning point came with the initiative of Emperor Wu (Wudi), who launched a series of military campaigns against the Xiongnu. Wudi's approach was multifaceted, involving not just direct military confrontation but also strategic tactics such as seizing control of the trade routes, specifically the Silk Roads, to undermine the Xiongnu's resupply capabilities. The establishment of military commanderies and civil counties in key areas further strengthened Han's position.
Wudi's military expeditions expanded westward, and the Han were able to make allies with some of the Xiongnu's enemies. This, along with internal divisions within the Xiongnu leadership over succession rights, weakened their power and gave Han an upper hand. Eventually, a faction of the Xiongnu, the Southern Xiongnu, became vassals to the Han, further tilting the balance of power. The Han Dynasty's assertive policies over time led to the subjugation of the Xiongnu and the securing of the eastern terminus of the Silk Roads.