Zhu Yuanzhang (Hongwu Emperor)

Zhu Yuanzhang, known as the Hongwu Emperor, was the founder of China’s Ming Dynasty, ruling from 1368 to 1398. Born into a poor peasant family, he rose to power during the fall of the Mongol-led Yuan Dynasty. After leading a successful rebellion, he established a strong centralized government and reformed land policies to benefit farmers. The Hongwu Emperor promoted Confucianism, revitalized Chinese culture, and implemented strict laws to maintain order. His reign marked a significant shift in Chinese history, emphasizing internal stability and agricultural development, and laid the groundwork for a prosperous era in the Ming Dynasty.