Xun Guan (303–?) was a Chinese military general of the Jin dynasty (266–420). She was an ancient Chinese heroine who famously led a group of soldiers into battle at the age of thirteen (by East Asian reckoning). She is said to have broken through enemy lines to call for reinforcements and prevent the city of Wancheng (; in present-day Nanyang, Henan) from falling.
Life and legacy
Xun Guan was the daughter of Xun Song (; 263?-329?),Xun Song's biography in Jin Shu recorded that he was 67 (by East Asian reckoning) when he died in the 3rd year of the Xianhe era of the reign of Emperor Cheng of Jin. However, the same biography recorded that Xun was still alive (though in poor health) when Emperor Cheng went on board Wen Jiao's vessel after Su Jun's rebellion was put down in early 329. Thus, Xun Song likely died in early 329. the Chief Controller of Jingzhou north of the Yangzi, who in turn was descended from Xun Yu, a famous adviser to the Han dynasty warlord Cao Cao.() Jin Shu, vol.75 The Book of Jin describes her as having an exceptional spirit since she was young.
During the 310s, Jingzhou became a contested region between Jin and southern rebel groups. In 315, the rebel leader, Du Zeng, laid siege on Xun Song's base in Wancheng to capitalize on a recent victory over Jin. Defenders were few in the city, and provisions eventually declined to a point where reinforcements were required to stave off the attack. As the city was surrounded, the only option was for a party to break through enemy lines and request for help from the Administrator of Xiangcheng (, in modern Xuchang, Henan), Shi Lan () and the General of the Household Gentlemen of the South, Zhou Fang. The 13 year-old Xun Guan volunteered for the task. Leading a small group of soldiers, she waited to night to climb over the city walls and penetrate the enemy lines. She and her men fought with Du Zeng's men until they escaped into the Luyang Hills ().
Xun Guan was able to find Shi Lan and persuaded him into sending reinforcements to Wancheng. She also sent a letter written by her father to Zhou Fang requesting for assistance. Upon seeing the arrival of Zhou Fang and Shi Lan's reinforcements, Du Zeng quickly lifted the siege and retreated.() Jin Shu, vol.96
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