Legendary Chinese Red Army leader known as the "One-Eyed Dragon" (he lost his right eye in battle). Appointed as one of ten People's Liberation Army marshals in 1955 and later became a Politburo member. Lost his sight completely and retired from public political life in the 1960s. Remained a nominal member of the leadership and survived the Cultural Revolution without being purged.

Participated in the Nanchang Uprising. Was present during the Zunyi Conference. Fought against the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. Appointed as a People's Liberation Army marshal during 1955 and was in charge of China's nuclear weapons program. Played a leading role in the February Adverse Current movement, but still managed to survive the Cultural Revolution unscathed.

Member of the 28 Bolsheviks. Was in close contact with Mao Zedong on a daily basis as Director of the General Office of the CCP from 1945-1965. Purged during the Cultural Revolution as a supporter of Liu Shaoqi and Deng Xiaoping. Rehabilitated after Mao's death. Supported students early on during the Tiananmen Square protests but later turned and supported military suppression.