Yuan Shikai (simplified Chinese: 袁世凯; traditional Chinese: 袁世凱; pinyin: Yuán Shìkǎi; Wade–Giles: Yüan Shih-k'ai; 16 September 1859 – 6 June 1916) was an important Chinese general and politician, famous for his influence during the late Qing Dynasty, his role in the events leading up to the abdication of the last Qing Emperor of China, his autocratic rule as the second President of the Republic of China (following Sun Yatsen), and his short-lived attempt to revive the Chinese monarchy, with himself as the "Great Emperor of China."
Like many Chinese men before 1949, Yuan used and was referred to by many different names. His courtesy name was "Weiting" (Chinese: 慰亭; pinyin: Wèitíng), and he used the pseudonym "Rong'an" (Chinese: 容庵; pinyin: Róng'ān). He was sometimes referred to by the name of his birthplace, "Xiangcheng" (simplified Chinese: 项城; traditional Chinese: 項城; pinyin: Xiàngchéng), or by a title for tutors of the crown prince, "Kung-pao" (simplified Chinese: 宫保; traditional Chinese: 宮保; pinyin: Gōngbǎo).
Read more about Yuan Shikai: Early Life, Years in Joseon Dynasty Korea, Late Qing Dynasty, Retreat and Return, The Wuchang Uprising and The Republic, Becoming Emperor, Evaluation and Legacy, Personal Information