Zu Dashou

MedievalGeneralChina1568 — 1656

Ming general who defended Jinzhou before surrendering to the Qing.

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Quick Facts

Born

1568

Died

1656

Country

China

Era

Medieval

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)40

Political (20%)29

Influence (20%)44

Legacy (20%)37

Leadership (15%)54

Strategy (15%)53

Total Score42.0

Zu Dashou — Complete Timeline

1631 AD

Defended Jinzhou from Manchu SiegeWar◆ Major

Zu Dashou commanded the Ming defense of Jinzhou during the Manchu siege. He held the city for months, repelling multiple assaults by the Later Jin forces under Hong Taiji, demonstrating his skill as a defensive commander.

JinzhouSiegeMing Defense

Impact: regional

1642 AD

Surrendered to the QingWar

After a prolonged siege and with no hope of relief, Zu Dashou surrendered Jinzhou to the Qing (Manchu) forces. His surrender was a major blow to Ming defenses in Liaodong and provided the Qing with a key strategic city.

SurrenderQingJinzhou

Impact: nationaltragic

Served as Qing GeneralWar

After surrendering, Zu Dashou was incorporated into the Qing military hierarchy. He served as a general under the Qing, participating in campaigns against the Ming, which tarnished his reputation among Ming loyalists.

Qing ServiceMing LoyalistDefection

Impact: national