Guan Yu, also known as Guan Yunchang, was a prominent military general during the late Eastern Han Dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period in Chinese history. Born in Xie County (present-day Yuncheng, Shanxi Province), he is widely celebrated for his loyalty, bravery, and sense of justice, which have made him a legendary figure in Chinese culture.​Guan Yu is most famously known for his association with Liu Bei, the founder of the Shu Han state, and Zhang Fei; the three swore an oath of brotherhood in the Peach Garden, vowing to stand by each other through thick and thin, a story immortalized in the classic novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms. As a general, he displayed exceptional military prowess—his feats, such as crossing the five passes and slaying six generals, and his leadership in battles like the Battle of Fancheng, have become iconic tales of courage and strategy.​Beyond his historical role, Guan Yu has been deified over time. He is revered as Guan Gong or Lord Guan and is worshipped in temples across China and other East Asian countries. In traditional culture, he symbolizes loyalty, righteousness, and honor, and is even regarded as a patron saint of businessmen, warriors, and others seeking guidance in upholding moral values. His image, often depicted with a long beard, wearing a green robe, and holding a crescent-moon blade, remains deeply ingrained in Chinese art, literature, and popular culture.