Zheng Zhilong

Zheng Zhilong rose to become a prominent pirate leader controlling trade routes in the South China Sea. He commanded a large fleet and established a power base in Fujian, engaging in both piracy and maritime commerce.

Zheng Zhilong accepted an amnesty from the Ming government and became a naval commander. He used his fleet to suppress other pirates and defend the coast, gaining official rank and wealth.

Zheng Zhilong commanded the Ming fleet that defeated a Dutch East India Company squadron at Liaoluo Bay near Fujian. The victory secured Ming control over coastal waters and forced the Dutch to pay tribute.

After the fall of Beijing, Zheng Zhilong chose to surrender to the Qing rather than continue resistance. He was given a rank in the Qing military, but his son Koxinga refused to surrender and continued fighting.

Zheng Zhilong was executed by the Qing authorities in Beijing. His execution was ordered after his son Koxinga intensified his rebellion and besieged Dutch Taiwan, making Zhilong a liability.