Ming Emperor Hongwu

Ming Emperor Hongwu, originally named Zhu Yuanzhang, founded the Ming Dynasty in China in 1368 after leading a successful rebellion against Mongol rule. He ruled until 1398 and is known for restoring stability and promoting agricultural reforms, which improved the economy. Hongwu emphasized central authority and established a civil service examination system to recruit officials based on merit. His reign laid the groundwork for a thriving culture and significant advancements in literature, art, and technology. Despite his achievements, he was also known for his ruthless suppression of dissent and paranoia, leading to the execution of many perceived threats.