Zhang Zuolin

Zhang Zuolin established the Fengtian clique, a warlord faction based in Manchuria. He consolidated control over the region through military force and political alliances. The Fengtian clique became one of the most powerful warlord factions in China during the Warlord Era.

Zhang Zuolin's Fengtian clique was defeated by the Zhili clique in the Second Zhili-Fengtian War. The defeat forced Zhang to retreat to Manchuria and temporarily weakened his power. However, he later recovered and regained influence in northern China.

Zhang Zuolin captured Beijing and established himself as the de facto ruler of northern China. He styled himself as the 'Old Marshal' and attempted to unify the country under his leadership. His rule was marked by authoritarianism and conflict with the Nationalist government.

Zhang Zuolin was assassinated when his train was bombed by the Japanese Kwantung Army near Shenyang. The assassination was carried out because Zhang had resisted Japanese attempts to expand influence in Manchuria. His death led to the rise of his son, Zhang Xueliang, and increased Japanese control in the region.