Wú Guǎng (吴广)

**Wu Guang (吴广): The Rebel Who Helped Spark the Fall of the Qin Dynasty** **Early Life and Background** Wu Guang (d. 208 BCE) was a peasant leader who played a pivotal role in the uprising against the oppressive Qin Dynasty. Little is known about his early life, but he likely came from humble origins in Yangcheng (modern-day Henan). Like many peasants of the time, he suffered under the Qin’s harsh policies, including heavy taxes, forced labor, and brutal punishments. **Major Achievements and Contributions** Wu Guang is best known for co-leading the **Dazexiang Uprising (209 BCE)** with Chen Sheng, marking the first major rebellion against the Qin. The revolt began when heavy rains delayed their military unit, punishable by death under Qin law. Rather than face execution, Wu Guang and Chen Sheng rallied fellow conscripts, declaring, *"Rather than die like dogs, let us fight for a noble cause!"* They proclaimed the restoration of the former Chu state, gaining widespread support. Though the rebellion was eventually crushed, it ignited a wave of revolts that toppled the Qin Dynasty in 206 BCE. **Historical Significance** Wu Guang’s rebellion exposed the Qin’s vulnerability and inspired future leaders like Liu Bang (founder of the Han Dynasty). It demonstrated the power of popular uprisings in Chinese history, setting a precedent for peasant-led revolts against tyrannical rule. **Interesting Facts** - Wu Guang and Chen Sheng used clever tactics to rally support, including hiding a message in a fish’s belly that read *"Chen Sheng will be king!"*—a form of early propaganda. - Despite their initial success, internal strife led to Wu Guang’s assassination by his own men, highlighting the challenges of rebel leadership. **Legacy** Though short-lived, Wu Guang’s defiance became a symbol of resistance. His story is celebrated in Chinese literature, including Sima Qian’s *Records of the Grand Historian*, and remains a reminder of the people’s power against oppression.