Meng Tian

Meng Tian was born in Zhao, China, around 300 BC. His father was Meng Ao, a general who served under King Zhaoxiang of Qin. Meng Tian followed his father's footsteps and became a military officer in the Qin army. He distinguished himself in several campaigns against the Xiongnu, the nomadic tribes that threatened the northern border of China. He was appointed as the commander-in-chief of the northern frontier by Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China, who unified the warring states in 221 BC. Meng Tian was responsible for building the Great Wall of China, a massive defensive structure that stretched for thousands of kilometers along the northern border. He also constructed roads, canals, and fortresses to facilitate the movement and supply of troops. He was praised by the emperor for his loyalty, bravery, and talent. He died in 210 BC, after the emperor's death. He was accused of treason by Zhao Gao, a powerful eunuch who controlled the imperial court. He was forced to commit suicide in prison, and his family was killed. Three years after his death, the Qin dynasty collapsed. Meng Tian was regarded as one of the greatest generals and architects in Chinese history. His achievements in building the Great Wall of China and other fortifications were admired and respected by later generations.