Huo Qubing (140-117 BC), a renowned military general of the Western Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 24), was elected as the Chinese historical figure of 2024 at a Hong Kong event on Monday, receiving about 37,000 votes.
The annual election, organized since 2018 by the Centre of National History Education (Hong Kong), invites local students and residents to choose the most representative historical figure of a specific sector.
The latest election focused on military generals known for “defending the territory and benefiting the people with stability”.
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The election, held both online and offline in November, saw participation from 458 primary and secondary schools and the general public, recording 122,000 votes, the highest turnout ever.
General Huo, known for his military prowess during the reign of Emperor Wu of Western Han, led successful military expeditions in today’s western Gansu province, which enhanced trade routes, contributing to the prosperity of the Silk Road.
Wen Tianxiang (1236-1283), a Southern Song Dynasty poet and politician, secured second place with 34,000 votes. He refused to serve the Mongol rulers when defeated and is remembered as a symbol of loyalty.
The other three candidates were Tang Dynasty general Guo Ziyi (697-781), Ming Dynasty coastal defender Qi Jiguang (1528-1588), and Qing Dynasty military leader Zeng Guofan (1811-1872).
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Speaking at the Monday award ceremony, David Ho Chi-hoo, founder and chairman of the Centre of National History Education (Hong Kong), said the event aims to facilitate students’ understanding of the contributions made by historical figures to the country, society, and culture. The poll also fosters a sense of national identity among students, he added.
Permanent Education Secretary Michelle Li Mei-sheung said that every generation faces distinct challenges. While many regions are engulfed in issues such as conflicts and food scarcity, Hong Kong residents benefit from living in a secure country. Only when the country is safe can the family be safe, she said. Li also noted that the Education Bureau will arrange modern history courses and activities to help students gain better understanding of the past.
The 2023 election, centered around Chinese art, was won by Tang Dynasty poet and painter, Wang Wei (701-761).
