An Lushan

An Lushan, born in the year seven hundred three, was a prominent military officer and a notorious usurper during the Tang dynasty of China. His legacy is primarily marked by the An Lushan rebellion, a catastrophic uprising that led to the deaths of millions of Han Chinese and significantly contributed to the decline of the Tang dynasty. The rebellion also resulted in the sacking of Chang'an by the Tibetan Empire, leaving a lasting impact on Chinese history.

Of Sogdian and Göktürk origin, An Lushan rose through the ranks as a general, notably defending the northeastern frontier of the Tang dynasty against the Khitans and other threats. His frequent visits to the capital, Chang'an, allowed him to cultivate a favorable relationship with Emperor Xuanzong and Chancellor Li Linfu, which ultimately facilitated his ascent to power.

By the year seven hundred fifty-one, An Lushan had been appointed as the military governor over three prefectures. However, following the death of Li Linfu in seven hundred fifty-three, tensions escalated between An Lushan and his rivals, General Geshu Han and Chancellor Yang Guozhong, leading to a volatile military environment within the empire.

In late seven hundred fifty-five, An Lushan instigated a rebellion that swiftly captured Luoyang, the eastern capital. In early seven hundred fifty-six, he declared himself emperor of the newly established Yan dynasty. Despite his initial successes, An Lushan's health deteriorated, and he became increasingly violent and paranoid while remaining in the Luoyang palace. His reign came to a violent end in early seven hundred fifty-seven when he was murdered by a eunuch, with the complicity of his own son, An Qingxu.