Zhu Gang

Zhu Gang (18 December 1358 – 30 March 1398) was an imperial prince of the Ming dynasty in China. He was the third son of Zhu Yuanzhang, who later became the Hongwu Emperor, and his first wife, Lady Ma. Zhu Gang was born in 1358 during a period of significant upheaval, at a time when Zhu Yuanzhang was engaged in the Red Turban Rebellion from his base in Nanjing.

In 1368, Zhu Yuanzhang proclaimed himself emperor and established the Ming dynasty. Following his ascension, Zhu Gang was granted the title of prince in May 1370, as one of the seven sons of the emperor. He received the title "Prince of Jin" (晉王).

Upon reaching adulthood in 1378, Zhu Gang moved to Taiyuan, the capital of Shanxi province. He did not hold official administrative authority over the region but maintained considerable personal influence, largely through his personal guard, which consisted of three regiments, and his household composed of experienced advisors and officials. His interests included the arts; he was known for collecting paintings and calligraphy and was a supporter of Buddhist monasteries in his region.

During the late 1380s and early 1390s, Zhu Gang was entrusted with controlling parts of the northern and northwestern frontiers of the Ming empire. In the early 1390s, following internal purges, he took command of frontier armies alongside Zhu Di, his brother, who later became the Yongle Emperor. Other princes of the era, including those of Qi, Chu, Liao, and Xiang, also held frontier command roles during this period.

Zhu Gang's death occurred in 1398, after falling ill earlier that year. He is recorded to have had seven sons and three daughters. His descendants continued to hold the title of Prince of Jin until 1648.

References to his life are documented in various historical texts, but detailed citations are not included in this summary.