6. Li Lianying: The Shadow Behind the Dragon Throne
Li Lianying started as a barber before becoming chief eunuch to Empress Dowager Cixi in China’s Qing dynasty (1848-1911). For nearly 30 years, he controlled who could speak to China’s most powerful woman. Foreign diplomats bribed him for access, and he ran her household while advising on state matters from behind screens. His influence extended to military appointments, government policy, and even which reports the Empress would see each morning.
