During the administration of King Zheng of Qin State (who would later become the first true emperor of China), Huang Guigu held the official title of 'Lady Sima' (sima is an ancient official post) and had command of three military units.¹ She had "the strength to draw a strong bow", and led campaigns against the peoples of China's northern frontier.²

Huang Guigu was a dedicated soldier, "studying military texts at night and practising military formations in the day". She was also "skilled at reading the stars."³ After the Qin Dynasty was succeeded by the Han Dynasty, the founding Emperor of Han honored Lady Huang with an imperial decree rewarding her with 300 catties of gold and jade.⁴

X.T.

Notes

1. The Origin of the Huang Lineage (Chinese article)
2. The Origin of the Huang Lineage (Chinese article)
3. The Origin of the Huang Lineage (Chinese article)
4. The Origin of the Huang Lineage (Chinese article)