Meng Tian was a general of the Qin Dynasty who distinguished himself in campaigns against the Xiongnu and in the construction of the Great Wall of China.

He descended from a great line of military generals and architects. It was said that Meng Tian is also traditionally revered for important improvements of the "Ink brush" .

When the First Emperor died, Meng's death was brought about through the plotting of Zhao Gao. He was forced to commit suicide in prison, and his family was killed. Three years after his death, the Qin Dynasty collapsed.

Gao Ying was one of the Four Generals in the early years of the Sui Dynasty. He was forced suicide by Emperor Yang of Sui.