桓温
Opportunity came for Jin in 349 as Later Zhao descended into civil war following the death of its monarch, Shi Hu. The court became heavily in favour of holding northern campaigns to claim back as much territory as they can in the ensuing chaos. The first to lead an expedition was Chu Pou that same year, but he was soundly defeated by Li Nong and died of shame in early 350. The court purposefully avoided giving command to Huan Wen and gave it to Yin Hao at first, hoping to have him distinguish himself to counter Huan's deeds. However, Yin Hao's campaigns all ended in failure, and after causing the prominent general Yao Xiang to rebel against Jin in 352, Huan Wen sent a petition to the court asking for his removal. Faced with no other choice, the court seceded, and Huan was allowed to lead the northern expeditions.