Hu Hanmin

Hu Hanmin (胡漢民, January 21, 1879 – May 12, 1936) was a prominent figure in the early Kuomintang (KMT) party of China. He was a close associate of Sun Yat-sen and played a significant role in the Xinhai Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the Republic of China.

Born in Guangdong province, Hu Hanmin became involved in revolutionary activities early in his life. He joined the Tongmenghui, Sun Yat-sen's revolutionary organization, and actively participated in efforts to overthrow the Qing dynasty. Following the establishment of the Republic, Hu held various important positions in the KMT government.

He was a key proponent of Sun Yat-sen's Three Principles of the People (Nationalism, Democracy, and People's Livelihood). However, after Sun Yat-sen's death in 1925, Hu Hanmin became a major rival of Chiang Kai-shek for control of the KMT. He represented the right wing of the party, advocating for a more conservative and centralized approach.

Hu Hanmin's political differences with Chiang Kai-shek led to his house arrest in 1931 following a power struggle. He was later released and remained influential within the KMT, although he never fully regained his former power. He continued to advocate for his political beliefs and played a role in shaping the KMT's policies during the period leading up to the Second Sino-Japanese War. He died in 1936.