In the late Qing Dynasty, China was faced with the dual pressure of internal and external troubles. The internal Taiping Rebellion shook the foundations of the Qing Empire, while the invasion of the Western powers signalled the failure of China's traditional policy of seclusion. At this turning point in history, Zeng Guofan, an ordinary scholar from Hunan, became one of the most influential officials of the late Qing Dynasty with his extraordinary political talents and strong moral convictions. He was not only the founder of the Hunan Army, but also an early advocate of the Westernization Movement. Zeng Guofan's life is a microcosm of China's transition from feudalism to modernity.
On a spring morning in 1872, Zeng Guofan sat quietly in his mansion, the plum blossoms outside the window were nearing the end, but still exuding a faint fragrance. This old man, who was already the governor of Liangjiang, looked tired, but his eyes still radiated a resolute light. Despite his declining health, he continued to handle the official affairs of the imperial court and to keep an eye on the progress of the Westernization movement he advocated.
On that day, Zeng Guofan and his eldest son Zeng Jize strolled through the courtyard, talking about the future of the family and the fate of the country. Zeng Guofan said earnestly: "Ji Ze, Jiangshan Sheji, not the strength of one person can last. We should lead by example and convince others with virtue. Zeng Jize listened reverently, knowing that his father's every word was a guide to his future path.
Suddenly, Zeng Guofan felt a sharp headache hit him, and his body was shaky. Zeng Jize and the accompanying guards hurriedly helped him back to the room and placed him on a chair. Zeng Guofan's face was pale, his lips moved slightly, and he seemed to have many unfulfilled wishes. The eldest son hurriedly retrieved the last words prepared in advance and began to read them aloud.
In his last words, Zeng entrusted the family with responsibility and hope, especially regretting the task that could not be completed. He was entrusted by Zuo Zongtang to write an epitaph for the later famous general Liu Songshan, but only completed the beginning. He also regretted not being able to witness the growth of the first batch of international students in the United States. His eyes revealed a deep concern for the future of his country.
In the last few minutes of his life, Zeng Guofan made a final request to his family with gestures, and his face gradually showed a smile. Everyone present was deeply moved by this scene, and tears flowed involuntarily. Zeng Guofan, an old man who has dedicated his life to the country and the nation, calmly closed his eyes with a smile.
The death of Zeng Guofan is not only the grief of a family, but also the loss of the entire country. The imperial court spoke highly of him, posthumously gifted the Taifu, gave him the nickname "Wenzheng", and dropped out of the dynasty for three days to express mourning. His death is seen as the end of an era, and it also heralds the countless challenges that China will face in the process of modernization.
Zeng Guofan's life is an indelible memory in China's modern history. With his firm will and outstanding political ability, he stood up at a time of national crisis, not only quelling civil strife, but also promoting the introduction of Western technology and management methods. Zeng Guofan's death is not only the disappearance of an individual, but also the inheritance of spirit and values. His passing away symbolizes his high morals and merits, and also indicates that all his efforts during his lifetime will be remembered by future generations. His last words and regrets are a kind of wake-up call and inspiration for future generations, reminding us of the importance of responsibility and responsibility. In this story, we not only see the curtain call of a great man, but also draw from it the spirit of unremitting pursuit and dedication to meet the challenges of the future.