Ma Benzhai

military leader

Ma Benzhai (1903-1944) was a prominent Chinese Muslim commander known for his leadership of the Hui People's Anti-Japanese Volunteer Army during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Born into a poor family in Hebei province, he initially joined the Northeast Army before becoming disillusioned with the Nationalist government’s lack of resistance against Japanese aggressors. He returned to his hometown to form the Hui Anti-Japanese Volunteer Team, which later became part of the Eighth Route Army. Ma's strategic prowess and bravery made his unit a formidable force against Japanese troops, leading to significant victories and earning him the respect of both allies and enemies. He fought in numerous battles, exemplifying courage and tactical ingenuity until his untimely death at the age of 41.