Li Shiji
general of the Chinese Tang Dynasty
Years: 594 - 669
Li Shiji (594 – December 31, 669, né Xu Shiji, later known in the reign of Emperor Gaozong of Tang as Li Ji, courtesy name Maogong, formally Duke Zhenwu of Ying, is one of the most celebrated generals early in the Chinese Tang Dynasty.
He is initially a follower of Li Mi, one of the rebel rulers rebelling against the preceding Sui Dynasty, and he submits to Tang after Li Mi does so, upon which Emperor Gaozu, impressed with his loyalty to Li Mi, bestows on him the imperial clan name of Li.
He later participates in destroying Xu Yuanlang and Fu Gongshi, two of Tang's competitors in Tang's campaign to reunify China.
During the reign of Emperor Gaozu's son Emperor Taizong, he participates in the successful campaigns destroying Eastern Tujue and Xueyantuo, allowing Tang to become the dominant power in eastern Asia, and also serves as a chancellor.
During the reign of Emperor Gaozong, he serves as chancellor and the commander of the army against Goguryeo, destroying Goguryeo in 668.
He dies the next year.
He and Li Jing were considered the two most prominent early Tang generals.
