Dou Jiande (573 - 621) was a prominent leader who led a massive peasant uprising during the end of the Sui Dynasty.
He won the hearts of the people by showing compassion for the poor and struggling peasants, and he established a powerful state called 'Xia' in the Hebei region. Legend has it that he was generous and lived a frugal life just like the common people, earning him great respect.
In 621, he led a massive army to rescue Wang Shichong, who was in crisis. However, he fell into Li Shimin's brilliant trap at the Battle of Hulao, suffered a crushing defeat, and was captured.
He was eventually taken to the Tang capital, Chang'an, and executed, marking the end of the nation he dreamed of building for the people.