Gong Yonggu

Gong Yonggu, courtesy name Hongtu, was a native of Wancheng County, Shuntian Prefecture during the Ming Dynasty (modern-day southwest Beijing), originally from Puzhai County in Shandong. His birth and death years are unknown; he died in 1644. His wife was Princess Le'an, daughter of Emperor Guangzong of Ming, and he once held the position of imperial escort officer (Fuma Duyou). He was characterized by a refined personality, enjoyed collecting ancient books and Yi ritual vessels, and was a friend of Liu Wenbing, a cousin of Emperor Chongzhen. In the first month of the 17th year of Chongzhen (1644), Emperor Chongzhen summoned Liu Wenbing and Gong Yonggu to discuss state affairs; they suggested establishing a vassal state early on and sending envoys to the Yongwang and Dingwang kingdoms, but this was not realized. On the first day of March, Li Zicheng’s army approached the city; Gong Yonggu defended at Chongwen Gate. On March 16, Li Zicheng captured Xizhimen; Emperor Chongzhen ordered eunuchs to summon Liu Wenbing and Gong Yonggu, and the two fought Li Zicheng’s army at Chongwen Gate. On March 18, Gong Yonggu advised, “Having accumulated firewood within the palace, I should burn myself to death with the gates closed, in order to report to the Emperor.” On March 19, Li Zicheng entered Beijing; after burning books, cultural relics, and his residence, Gong Yonggu committed suicide by throwing himself into a well. During the Southern Ming period, he was posthumously awarded the title of Shao Shi (Minor Master) and given the official posthumous name Zhennian (Faithful and Respectful) as a tribute.