Yíng Zhèng (嬴政)

**Yíng Zhèng (嬴政): The First Emperor of China** **Early Life and Background** Born in 259 BCE, Yíng Zhèng (later known as Qin Shi Huang) ascended to the throne of the Qin state at just 13 years old. His father, King Zhuangxiang, died prematurely, leaving the young ruler under the regency of his chancellor, Lü Buwei. Despite his youth, Yíng Zhèng displayed remarkable political acumen, consolidating power by eliminating rivals and asserting control over his court. **Major Achievements** Yíng Zhèng’s most monumental achievement was unifying China in 221 BCE after defeating the six rival Warring States. He declared himself *Qin Shi Huang* ("First Emperor") and established the Qin Dynasty, China’s first centralized imperial government. He standardized writing, currency, weights, and measures, creating a cohesive national system. His construction of the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army—a vast mausoleum guarded by thousands of life-sized clay soldiers—showcased his ambition and organizational prowess. **Historical Significance** Qin Shi Huang’s reign marked the birth of imperial China, setting the blueprint for governance that lasted over two millennia. Though his Legalist policies were harsh (including book burnings and scholar executions), his administrative reforms laid the foundation for future dynasties. **Interesting Facts** - Obsessed with immortality, he sent expeditions to find the elixir of life. - Fearing assassination, he slept in different rooms each night. - The Terracotta Army, discovered in 1974, remains one of archaeology’s greatest finds. **Legacy** Despite his tyrannical reputation, Qin Shi Huang’s unification of China remains a cornerstone of Chinese identity. His innovations in governance and infrastructure endure as symbols of China’s enduring civilization. Today, he is both celebrated as a visionary and critiqued as a despot—a complex figure whose impact is undeniable.