Luo Shixin was originally a young soldier under Zhang Xutuo, one of top generals of the Sui dynasty during Emperor Yang's reign.
18 Facts About Luo Shixin
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In 613, when he was only 14 years old, Luo Shixin fought in various battles against peasant uprisings in the Shandong region.
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Luo Shixin's bravery left a deep impression on Zhang Xutuo.
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Luo Shixin gradually became famous within Sui armies in which he served as well as within many rebellious forces.
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Luo Shixin thus became a soldier under Pei Renji, another Sui general.
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However, in 617, Pei Renji was defeated by Wagang Army and surrendered, while Luo Shixin joined the Wagang Army while being promoted to be a commander.
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Not long afterwards, Luo Shixin was captured by Wang Shichong, another rebellion warlord based in Luoyang, during a battle.
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Wang Shichong knew that Luo Shixin had great talent, so he treated Luo Shixin well and tried to let him surrender.
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However, Luo Shixin disliked Wang Shichong and thought that Wang Shichong would eventually be defeated.
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Luo Shixin was especially disappointed after Wang Shichong executed Pei Renji and Pei Xingyan.
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From 620 to 621, Luo Shixin took part in the campaign against Wang Shichong and Dou Jiande.
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Luo Shixin played a key role in Battle of Hulao in which Tang forces completely destroyed the allied force between Wang and Dou.
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In 622, Luo Shixin took part in the campaign against Liu Heita.
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Luo Shixin thus led his division charging toward the city.
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Luo Shixin communicated with Wang Junkuo with flag signals, and successfully joined force with Wang Junkuo after opening up a pathway in Liu Heita's formations.
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Li Shimin was sad to hear about the death of Luo Shixin, bought his body back from Liu Heita and buried him ceremoniously near the tomb of his former superior Pei Renji.
17.
Luo Shixin's stories triggered the creation of the semi-fictional figure Luo Cheng in many folk tales.
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In some other versions, Luo Shixin was described as a naive and clumsy soldier but has a strength that could rival the best warrior at his time.