Chinese idiom – 一马当先 yī mǎ dāng xiān

The story “一马当先” (“Taking the Lead”) originates from the historical account of the rivalry between Liu Bang and Xiang Yu in the Records of the Grand Historian. In the midst of the conflict between the Han and Chu forces, Liu Bang found his army in dire straits. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he made a bold decision. Mounted on horseback, Liu Bang personally led his troops into the fray, charging ahead at the forefront of the battle. His courageous actions broke through the enemy lines, rallying his soldiers and ultimately securing victory.

This tale exemplifies Liu Bang’s decisiveness and bravery, as he led by example and spearheaded the charge, turning the tide of the battle. It serves as the basis for the idiomatic expression “一马当先” (“to take the lead”), signifying leading from the front in any endeavor or competition.