Dying with His Boots On

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In 210 BC,49-year-old Ying Zheng went on an inspection tour to the south. He offered sacrifices to Yu–the reputed founder of the Xia Dynasty (c.2070-1600 BC)–at his legendary mausoleum on Mount Kuaiji in present Zhejiang Province, and erected an engraved stone there to eulogize the Qin Dynasty’s achievements. However, on his homeward journey, Ying Zheng came down with an illness in Pingyuanjin(south of present Dezhou City in Shandong Province), and soon passed away in Shaqiu(present Guangzong County of Hebei Province). Chancellor Li Si who was in the royal entourage during the trip decided to keep the emperor’s death secret from his sons. Chief eunuch Zhao Gao even put some salted fish into the imperial carriage to cover the stink of the corpse.

The Mausoleum of YingZheng

Located at the foot of Mount Li in Lintong County，Shaanxi Province，the grand mausoleum was found in 1974.According to historical records，no sooner had Ying Zheng ascended the throne than he set about building his own tomb.Designed by Chancellor Li Si and supervised by General Zhang Han，the construction project lasted for 38 years.

Once returning to Xianyang，Li Si and Zhao Gao made Huhai–Ying Zheng’s 18th son–emperor，whilst forcing crown prince Fusu and his supporter general Meng Tian to commit suicide.

Only four years later，the rule of the Qin Dynasty was overthrown by the surging peasant uprisings.

And in its ruins Liu Bang established the Han Dynasty.

Ying Zheng has remained a controversial figure in Chinese history.Though a notorious despot，he had made many institutional reforms that were adopted by the following dynasties.By and large，his contributions just neutralized his blunders.

In 221BC，King Ying Zheng of the Qin State united China and proclaimed himself emperor，both for the first time in history.He has remained a controversial figure known both for his despotic rule and for radical reforms.

Luwas his given name whilst his family name remains unknown.

Liu Bang of a Humble Origin: Founding Emperor of the Western Han Dynasty Portrait of Liu Bang(256or 247-195BC) Liu Bang, founder of the western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 25), was called reverently Gaozu after death. An emperor with a peasant-class background, he enjoyed a reign of seven years(202-195 BC).

Liu Bang(256 or 247-195 BC) of the Han nationality, whose courtesy name was Ji, came from a peasant’s family in Feng County of Pei Prefecture(located in present Feng County of Jiangsu Province).

Founder of the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 25), he acceded to the throne at age 54(or 45) and occupied it for seven years(202-195 BC).