Wubei Zhi (Vol. 47)

These methods are certain and can be implemented. However, because there was much repetition in the original sources, I have deliberated and decided based on the needs of the time to summarize them reliably. Whether for immediate response or for necessary preparations, all should follow these standards.

Clearing the Four Outskirts

original: "清四野" (Qing Si Ye); a scorched-earth policy designed to deny an approaching enemy any resources or cover outside the city walls.

The people from the four outskirts must enter the city to avoid the invading army. Aside from all private property outside the gates, which must be entirely moved into the city, other items like long timber, large planks, mats, thin wood, iron, household tools, firewood, and straw—do not leave behind a single item.

Firstly, they would merely be burned and destroyed by the enemy original: "賊" (zei); literally "thieves" or "bandits," a standard derogatory term used in Ming military texts to refer to invading forces or rebels. Secondly, the enemy would use them as tools for the siege. Exercise the utmost caution in this.

If there are large trees outside the city, they should be cut down. This is especially vital for the defense of the area near the city walls. Inside the city, it is impossible to manage without horse roads Horse Roads (Ma Lu): Wide paths running along the inner base of the city wall, designed to allow cavalry, messengers, and supply carts to move rapidly between gates and bastions without being blocked by civilian buildings.. If there are houses within thirty feet original: "三丈" (san zhang). In the Ming dynasty, this measurement was approximately 10 meters or 32 feet. of the city exterior, and the enemy force is numerous, dismantle them. If there is no time to dismantle them, then burn them. Those with wooden walls will be cleared away completely by a single fire. On that day...

Clearing the Four Outskirts, Avoiding the Military, Enemy Strength, Reliable Summary, Defense