In 1875, amid Xinjiang’s fall to Agubai and Russian encroachment, Zuo Zongtang, at 63, defied Li Hongzhang’s surrender advice, preparing a coffin for his “coffin-lifting” campaign. Rallying 60,000 troops, he reclaimed 1.66 million square kilometers through strategy and grit. Borrowing 8 million taels from Hu Xueyan and foreign banks, Zuo’s victory secured Xinjiang, founding modern industries like Fuzhou Shipyard. Explore Zuo’s heroic stand and its legacy.
Crisis: Xinjiang’s Loss and Debate
Agubai’s invasion killed innocents, establishing a regime, while Russia seized Ili. Li Hongzhang argued Xinjiang’s “barren” 1.66 million km² was dispensable. Zuo rebuked: “Surrendering land is treason!” He penned a 5,000-word memorial, vowing death for reclamation.
At 63, ill Zuo prepared his coffin, symbolizing resolve: “Victory or death!” This galvanized support, defying court skepticism.
Funding the Campaign: Loans and Alliances
Court funds: 2 million taels; Zuo needed 10 million. Prince Gong’s foreign loan attempts failed; Zuo turned to Hu Xueyan, securing 8 million from HSBC via guarantees.
This “borrow to fight” strategy, innovative for Qing, equipped troops with European arms and supplies, ensuring readiness.
Battles: Strategy and Triumphs
Zuo’s 60,000 troops marched 4,000 km, enduring Gobi hardships. Victories at Urumqi and Turpan crushed Agubai, who committed suicide. Zuo’s logistics—grain depots, canals—sustained forces.
Against Russia, diplomacy reclaimed Ili in 1881. Zuo’s “inch of land unyielded” ethos prevailed.
Legacy: Industrial Pioneer and Hero
Beyond conquest, Zuo founded Fuzhou Shipyard and Gansu Machinery Bureau, sparking Qing modernization. Hadrian and Zeng Guofan praised him; his deathbed words: “No inch of China’s land abandoned!”
Xinjiang’s stability today echoes Zuo’s sacrifice, inspiring territorial integrity.
Conclusion
Zuo Zongtang’s 1875 reconquest, reclaiming 1.66 million km², showcases unyielding patriotism. His legacy in military and industry endures. Read “Zuo Zongtang Biography” for more!
