Noted for his literary ability, Liu An was reputed to be able to compose an elaborate prose after he wakes up and finish it before breakfast. He was a grandson of the founding Han emperor Liu Bang , he became the Prince of Huainan at the age of 16 after his father, Liu Chang (劉長) died. In a fate similar to his father, he committed Suicide after a failed Coup attempt.
In addition to composing literary pieces himself, Liu An also frequently invited other scholars as guests to his estate. Eight scholars in particular became known as the Eight Immortals Of Huainan . Together, these scholars and Liu An published a treatise known as the ''Huainanzi'' (Huainan Philosophers).
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