Sun Quan, the son of Sun Jian, had been a prominent warlord and leader of Eastern Wu during the late Eastern Han dynasty. Following a series of military successes and political maneuvering during the tumultuous period of the Three Kingdoms, Sun Quan took the historic step to proclaim himself emperor. With his capital in Jianye (modern-day Nanjing), he sought to formalize and solidify his authority over the territories he controlled. This proclamation came in response to challenges from neighboring states such as Wei and Shu, as well as internal factional disputes. The formal recognition of his imperial status was not only a personal ambition but also a strategic move to unify his command and rally support from his troops and officials.

The declaration of his emperorship in 229 marked a significant point in the evolution of Eastern Wu's governance. Sun Quan organized a grand ceremony to announce his new title, which included the crafting of imperial decrees and constructing a more rigid bureaucratic structure. By adopting the title of emperor, Sun aimed to draw on the legitimacy of the ancient dynasties of China, thereby enhancing his political and military authority. His reign sought to establish stability and prosperity for Eastern Wu, which was essential for its survival amid the fierce rivalry among the Three Kingdoms.

Furthermore, Sun Quan's assumption of the imperial title encouraged a sense of nationalism and identity among the people of Wu. It signified a break from the fragmented power struggles and emphasized the establishment of a unified state. This transition had far-reaching implications for the politics and military strategies of the Three Kingdoms and laid the groundwork for future developments in the region's complex history.