Li Hongzhang: Born on Feb 15, 1823. He was a politician, general and diplomat of the late Qing Empire. His image in China remains controversial, with criticism on one hand for political and military mistakes and praise on the other for his success against the Taiping Rebellion, his diplomatic skills defending Chinese interests in the era of unequal treaties, and his role in pioneering China's industrial and military modernization. He was presented the Royal Victorian Order by Queen Victoria.[file photo]