During the early Eastern Han Dynasty, Emperor Guangwu, Liu Xiu, dispatched Grand Marshal Wu Han and General Cen Peng to subjugate Gongsun Shu, who had declared himself emperor in Chengdu. The Han forces advanced swiftly, and after a fierce battle, successfully captured the city.

However, Wu Han subsequently ordered a general massacre and looting of Chengdu. Upon hearing this, Liu Xiu severely rebuked him, stating, 'Even a broken broom in a common household is cherished as a valuable possession. By plundering the people's property, you will lose their hearts and minds.'

This admonition highlighted the importance of respecting even the humblest possessions of the populace to maintain their support.