Bai Yanhu

Bai Yanhu (白彦虎), also known as Muhammad Ayub, was a Hui Muslim leader who played a significant role in the Dungan Revolt (1862-1877) in Northwestern China. He was a key figure in the rebellion against the Qing Dynasty, leading Hui forces primarily in Shaanxi and Gansu provinces.

While initially a participant in local conflicts, Bai Yanhu rose to prominence as a military leader due to his charisma and tactical abilities. He led his forces in numerous battles against Qing troops, and became a symbol of resistance for many Hui Muslims during the revolt.

Following the suppression of the Dungan Revolt by the Qing forces under General Zuo Zongtang, Bai Yanhu led a substantial number of Hui refugees across the Tian Shan mountains into Central Asia, specifically to the territory of the Russian Empire. These refugees formed the basis of the Dungan communities that exist in present-day Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan.

His legacy remains controversial. Some view him as a hero who fought for the rights and autonomy of the Hui people, while others criticize him for the violence and destruction caused by the revolt and the displacement of communities. Historical accounts of Bai Yanhu and his role in the Dungan Revolt vary, reflecting the complex and sensitive nature of the historical event.