Zhu Yuanzhang (1328--1398), named Zhongba, also known as Xingzong, also known as Guorui, was born in Zhongli, Haozhou (now Fengyang East, Anhui). Born into a poor peasant family, he worked as a monk in Xinhui Temple when he was a child. In 1352 (12th year of the Yuan Dynasty,{sys:(year(now)-1352)} years ago), he joined the Red Turban Army of Guo Zixing, Haozhou.

In 1355 (15th year of the Yuan Dynasty), Han Liner granted Hao the title of Vice Marshal of the Left when he proclaimed himself emperor. Zhu Yuanzhang had strict military discipline and knew that people were good at their duties. Civil officials Feng Guosheng and Li Shanchang all advised him, and the brave and skillful Chang Yuchun and Hu Dahai all came to him.

In 1356 (the 16th year of the Yuan Dynasty), Jiqing (now Nanjing, Jiangsu) was captured, some harsh policies of the Yuan Dynasty were abolished, and generals were ordered to open up farmland. Later, he accepted Zhu Sheng's suggestion of "building high walls, accumulating grain extensively, and delaying the king" and strengthened his power. In 1367 (the 27th year of the Yuan Dynasty), Zhu Yuanzhang decided to make the Northern Expedition and put forward the slogans of "expel the Hu Krups and restore China" and "establish rules and regulations to relieve the people of Sri Lanka."

In the first month of 1368, the Northern Expedition Army occupied most of the capital, ending the rule of the Yuan Dynasty.

On January 23, 1368 (the fourth day of the first month of the first year of Hongwu of the Ming Dynasty), the Ming Dynasty was established, the Yuan Dynasty was changed to Hongwu, and Nanjing was established as the capital.