Wu Sangui

Wu Sangui was a Chinese military general and politician during the late 17th century. Originally serving the Ming Dynasty, he played a key role in fighting against invading Manchu forces. However, in a strategic move, Wu chose to ally with the Manchu Qing Dynasty to defend China from other rebels, effectively opening the gates of the Great Wall to the Qing armies. His actions contributed to the fall of the Ming Dynasty and the establishment of Qing rule. Wu is a controversial figure, seen by some as pragmatic and by others as a traitor to the Ming.