Zhang Yu

Zhang Yu (Chinese: 張玉), courtesy name Shimei (Chinese: 世美), was a military figure during the Ming dynasty. He was born in 1343 in Kaifeng, located in present-day Henan Province, China.

Zhang Yu was involved in the political and military conflicts that characterized the early Ming period, particularly supporting Zhu Di, the Prince of Yan, who later became the Yongle Emperor. He played a role in the Jingnan campaign (also known as the Jingnan rebellion), which was a pivotal internal conflict within the Ming dynasty. During this campaign, Zhang supported Zhu Di's efforts to overthrow the Jianwen Emperor, who was the reigning emperor at the time.

In December 1398, Zhang Yu organized and led a force of approximately 800 of Zhu Di's supporters to safeguard the Prince of Yan's residence in Beiping, an important strategic location. This action was part of the broader conflict during the Jingnan campaign, which culminated in Zhu Di's rebellion against the Jianwen Emperor.

On December 25, 1400, Zhang Yu and Zhu Di arrived at Dongchang, an area in present-day Liaocheng, Shandong Province. During subsequent military operations, Zhang Yu participated in efforts to resist the forces loyal to the Jianwen Emperor.

In early January 1401, Zhang Yu was killed in battle while attempting to break Zhu Di out of an encirclement. The engagement was led by Sheng Yong, who commanded the forces loyal to the Jianwen Emperor. Zhang Yu's death occurred on January 9, 1401, during this confrontation.

His contributions are recorded in the historical text "History of Ming," specifically in Volume 145, which documents his role in the Ming dynasty's military history and the Jingnan campaign.