12 Facts About Liu Hongji

Liu Hongji, titled Duke Xiang of Kui, was a general and officer in the early Tang dynasty of China.

Liu Hongji was listed as one of 24 honored founding officials of the Tang dynasty at Lingyan Pavilion.

Liu Hongji is son of Liu Sheng, a governor of Hezhou prefecture during the Sui dynasty.

Liu Hongji was drafted to the military service during Emperor Yang of Sui's campaigns against Goguryeo, but he was late for the duty, which might lead to a death penalty.

Liu Hongji thus intentionally killed a farmer's cow, which was a civil non-death felony.

Liu Hongji was arrested for killing the cow by the local government and imprisoned, and avoided the death row.

Liu Hongji's move cleared the flank for Li Yuan's main force who were attacking the Sui capital Daxing from the east.

From 618 to 622, Liu Hongji took part in Tang's unification wars against Xue Ju, Liu Wuzhou and Liu Heita as a subordinate to Li Shimin.

Liu Hongji was titled Duke of Ren for his military achievements.

Liu Hongji constructed a series of defending fortresses in today's Shaanxi and Gansu provinces.

Liu Hongji died in 650, one year later than Emperor Taizong.

In folk stories, Liu Hongji was one of the four close guards to protect Li Shimin when he was the Prince of Qin.