Sun Chengzong

Sun Chengzong was appointed as a Grand Secretary and given oversight of military affairs in Liaodong. He advocated for a forward defense strategy, including the construction of the Ningyuan fortress to block Manchu advances.

Sun Chengzong oversaw the construction of the Ningyuan fortress, a heavily fortified stronghold on the Liaodong coast. This base became a key defensive position that later withstood Manchu sieges and delayed their advance.

Sun Chengzong recognized the talent of the young official Yuan Chonghuan and promoted him to a key military role in Liaodong. Yuan later became the Ming's most effective general against the Manchus, winning the Battle of Ningyuan.

Sun Chengzong retired from office in the 1630s due to political infighting and died at age 75. His strategic vision for Liaodong was largely abandoned after his departure, contributing to the eventual Manchu conquest.