Zhu Gang

[1] At the time, Zhu Yuanzhang was a general of the Han Song dynasty, fighting in the Red Turban Rebellion from his base in Nanjing.

In 1368, Zhu Yuanzhang ascended to the throne as the emperor of the Ming dynasty and quickly unified China under his rule.

Despite lacking authority over the local administration, he held significant power due to his personal guard, which consisted of three regiments, and a large household led by experienced advisors and officials.

[3] Motivated by his passion for the arts, he accumulated a notable collection of paintings and calligraphy in his palace, and also provided support to Buddhist monasteries in the area.

[2] After the purges of the early 1390s, he took over command of the frontier armies with Zhu Di, along with his younger brothers, the princes of Qi, Chu, Liao, and Xiang,[5] and others.