Yue Fei

Yue Fei is celebrated as one of China’s greatest generals and a symbol of patriotism. Renowned for his military prowess, he played a pivotal role during the 12th-century conflicts between the Southern Song dynasty and the Jurchen-led Jin dynasty in northern China. Despite his dedication to defending the Song state, Yue Fei met a tragic end in 1142, executed under false charges orchestrated by the Southern Song government following a controversial peace treaty with the Jin.

When the Jurchen overran northern China in 1126, capturing the Song capital of Kaifeng, Yue Fei emerged as a key commander in the resistance. Leading Song forces during their retreat to the south, he leveraged the region’s rugged terrain to counter the Jin cavalry, halting their advance. Shifting to the offensive, Yue Fei reclaimed significant territories in central China, securing areas south of the Yangtze and Huai rivers. His unwavering loyalty and strategic brilliance have cemented his legacy as a national hero.