Wen Tianxiang (文天祥)

Wen Tianxiang (1236-1283), the "Song Dynasty's Top Ranking Scholar and Prime Minister, the West River's Filial Son and Loyal Subject" is one of the most famous symbols of loyalty and patriotism in China. His writings are still taught in China's schools today.

Wen was born in 1236 in Luling, Jiangxi during the late Southern Song Dynasty. In 1256 he was at the top of his class in the imperial examinations and he eventually became Prime Minister.

In 1278, Wen was captured by the invading Yuan (Mongol) armies of Kublai Khan, and offered a Yuan post if he would convince the remaining Song forces to surrender. Wen refused and spent for 4 years in a military prison before his execution in 1283. During this time he wrote the famous classics "Song of Righteousness" (Zhengqige), and "Passing Lingdingyang".

Read about the Wen Tianxiang Memorial open to the public in Beijing.