Hua Mu-Lan (fl. 5th c.)

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Hua Mu-Lan (fl. 5th c.)

Chinese soldier. Name variations: Hua Mu-Ian; Hua Mulan; Hwa Mu-Lan; Mu-Ian, Mu-Lan or Mulan. Lived between 386 and 618.

China's most famous woman warrior, possibly legendary, who lived during the Wei dynasty of the Tartars (386–557); when father was conscripted to go to war but was too sick to fight, offered to go in his place to protect the family honor; renowned for courage and leadership, joined the emperor's troops and fought for 12 years disguised as a man. Appears as a character in many Chinese operas and plays; was the basis for Disney film Mulan (1998).

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