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Li Zicheng

Type Figure Region China Time 1606–1645 Also known as Li Ji、Chuang King、Taizu of Dashun

Li Zicheng (1606–1645) was a late Ming peasant uprising leader from Mizhi, Shaanxi.…

Timeline

  1. 1631–1634Shaanxi · ShaanxiAround the fourth year of Chongzhen (1631), Li Zicheng raised forces in Shaanxi, forming alliances with various bands of displaced commoners. Repeatedly defeated yet repeatedly rising, he gradually built a reputation among the peasant armies of northern Shaanxi, laying the foundation for his later title of "Chuang King."
  2. 1635Xingyang · HenanIn the eighth year of Chongzhen (1635), Li Zicheng took part in the Xingyang alliance, deliberating with Luo Rucai, Zhang Xianzhong and others on dividing forces for campaigns. After the alliance the Chuang camp's strength was consolidated, and Li Zicheng became one of the core leaders of the late Ming peasant uprisings.
  3. 1636–1640Henan · HenanBetween 1636 and 1640, Li Zicheng led the Chuang camp deep into Henan, taking city after city; in 1638 he captured Fengyang, shaking the Ming court. Thereafter he fought back and forth with Ming armies, his power growing rapidly in the Central Plains, creating the conditions for his later advance west into Shaanxi and east against Beijing.

Sources