Gao Qiu

Gao Qiu (1076?–1126) was a Chinese politician who lived during the Song dynasty and served in the court of Emperor Huizong.

In the classical novel Water Margin, he is fictionalised as one of the primary antagonists and a nemesis of the protagonists, the 108 Heroes of Mount Liang.

As the emperor highly favoured him, he rose through the ranks quickly and became Grand Marshal (太尉) in 1117 AD, only 8 years after his patron's ascension to the throne.

[1] As Gao built a successful career, he accumulated fame and riches for his family, while unscrupulously undermining his enemies.

He recommended the son[specify] of his old superior Liu Zhongwu to Emperor Huizong, setting him on the path to becoming a famous general.

[1] After Emperor Huizong's abdication on 18 January 1126, Gao's influence in the Song imperial court decreased and he died of illness in 1126.

[3][4] Gao Qiu not only relied on good Cuju to be favored, but also his artistic interest and lifestyle that attracted Emperor Huizong very much.

The incident drove Lin Chong to revolt and go up to Liangshan where righteous characters in Water Margin gathered.

[9] In Dangkouzhi, a Chinese historical novel，Gao Qiu colluded with Cai Jing, another traitor in Water Margin, to frame Liangshan, but was killed by Lei Heng and Zhu Tong.