Throughout Chinese history, renowned military leaders have implemented strategies and tactics that transformed armies, enabled the rise and fall of empires, and secured victories against formidable foes, including pirates. Some of the most pivotal figures who influenced the trajectory of Chinese warfare and politics include Bai Qi, Han Xin, Cao Cao, and Yue Fei.
Bai Qi, a renowned military leader from ancient China who served as a prominent general for the Qin state during the Warring States period, is remembered for his brutal tactics and skill in engaging in siege warfare. He led numerous successful campaigns against rival states and conquered multiple territories.
One of Bai Qi's most notable military achievements occurred in 278 BCE when his forces occupied the strategic Chu capital of Ying. However, under the terms of a treaty agreed upon by both parties, the city inhabitants were allowed to leave safely. Unfortunately for them, Bai Qi ordered his soldiers to chase down and slaughter Chu inhabitants, sparking massive controversy and outcry about his humane treatment of the subjected people.
On the opposite side of the humane spectrum lies the distinguished and benevolent general, Han Xin. Despite facing many setbacks in his early life, including lacking the financial capability of paying taxes and having to flee to the countryside after being forced to flee for justice over a personal dispute, Han's keen intellect, coupled with his undying dedication, made him a prime target for becoming a renowned general.
Han Xin's career was kickstarted after saving the life of Chinese Emperor Gaozu of Han, who had survived a personal attack from bandit forces while he was an emperor candidate. Consequently, he enlisted Han Xin as his administration officer, where his duties entailed handling taxes, property, as well as enacting changes to ensure seamless administrative operations while adhering to the law. They ultimately formed one of the most dominant Chinese dynasties with over 460 years of prosperous history, 214 years for the Western Han.
However, without the shrewd tactics of legendary Chinese leader Cao Cao, ancient Chinese emperors might have been replaced centuries later. Noted for the numerous pivotal battles in Chinese ancient history that went undefeated under his presence, from famous Three Kingdom periods of China, who turned tides of power with successful implementation of massed crossbow formations. His military career was uneventful initially; however, in the year 190, all changed for him after establishing an auxiliary army in his locality to combat various uprising forces.
A major turning point in his life came with the rise of Emperor Dong Zhuo, in 189 CE after Liu Bian defeated to take succession and become the Emperor Shao of Han; ultimately giving power to his brother-in-law's head.
His strategic prowess with his prime target general Zhang Liao - turned countless times potential adversaries towards his advantage, including the defeat of combined militia groups as a result of a superior army Cao got after appointing Zhang Liao as commander, with a large contingent force at his disposal, he effectively neutralized various enemy parties by drawing them into one space using multiple units under Zhang Liao.
A legendary Southern Song military figure, Yue Fei, known for his groundbreaking tactics in the war against the Jin dynasty in China, was instrumental in combat operations. Fei is primarily known for pioneering efforts that enabled the organization of full-time army recruits to keep the nation secure. His actions caught many by surprise, especially amongst his adversaries - which turned the tide of power for warlords around this certain area creating waves for a historical shift.