Gao Xianzhi

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Gao Xianzhi (高仙芝; died 756) was a Tang general of Goguryeo descent who served during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong in the 8th century.

In 756, Gao Xianzhi and fellow general Feng Changqing made a stand at Tong Pass against the rebellion led by An Lushan. This was a heavily fortified, strategic chokepoint on the road to the capital of Chang'an from which they could protect Lushan's westward march from Luoyang. However, Lushan had allies in the Tang court in the form of Chancellor Yang Guozhong and the official Bian Lingcheng—all three were members of the Golden Turtles, shadowy organization which held the real power behind the throne. Yang and Bian fabricated false charges against Gao and Feng, with Bian personally detaining and executing the two generals while they were still commanding the defence of the pass.

They were replaced by the Tang court with Geshu Han, who was then pressed by Yang into a suicide attack against An Lushan's forces. The deaths of these two generals and the capture of Geshu led to the fall of Tong Pass and subsequently Chang'an.

Appearances

• Assassin's Creed: Dynasty