Dr. Sun Yat-Sen

Known as the "Father of Modern China," Dr. Sun Yat-Sen is recognized for his central role in the history of modern China where he sought to bring democrat rule in the early 20th century. He visited Vancouver three times to fund-raise in support of the revolution.

Born into a peasant family in Guangdong Province in 1866, he was educated in Hawaii exposing him to Western thought at an early age. Later, he left his medical career to devote himself to the cause of democracy. As China's first professional revolutionary, he traveled the world promoting the pro-democracy movement and raising funds.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen is credited with leading the 1911 revolution that finally overthrew the Qing dynasty. He became the first president of the Republic of China in 1912, but resigned shortly after to devote his efforts to the economic development of China. Since his death in 1925, Dr. Sun Yat -Sen's persona has evolved into a heroic symbol of modern China. He is known as Guo Fu, the Father of the Country.