The Chinese statesman Wen T'ien-hsiang (1236-1283) served the Sung dynasty in its closing years. For later Chinese he was the ideal model of the loyal minister.

Wen T'ien-hsiang was born on June 6, 1236, in Chi-an, Kiangsi. He grew into a tall man of imposing physique with a clear complexion and bushy brows setting off flashing eyes. He performed brilliantly on his chin-shih examination in 1256, placing first, but since his father died 4 days later, Wen T'ien-hsiang did not begin his official career until after the completion of the prescribed period of mourning. In 1259 he was appointed an assistant to the Ning-hai regional commander and soon attracted considerable attention by calling for the decapitation of an official who had suggested moving the capital because a strong Mongol attack seemed imminent. Wen's request was not granted, and the Sung dynasty was given a respite when, still in 1259, Kublai Khan, on the death...