Zhu Yuanzhang

Zhu Yuanzhang, also known as Emperor Hongwu, was the founding emperor of the Ming dynasty, which he established in 1368 after overthrowing the Mongol-led Yuan dynasty. Born into poverty, Zhu experienced a tumultuous early life, including the loss of his family to famine. He later joined a peasant rebellion, rising through the ranks with his exceptional leadership and military acumen.

As emperor, Zhu implemented sweeping reforms to stabilize the empire, focusing on agricultural recovery, strengthening the central bureaucracy, and reducing corruption. He established the lijia system for local governance, enacted strict laws, and emphasized Confucian principles to promote social harmony. Zhu's reign marked the restoration of Han Chinese rule after nearly a century of foreign domination and laid the foundation for one of China's most enduring dynasties.