Li Xin (duke) - During Li Gao's Reign

During Li Gao's Reign

It is not known when Li Xin was born, or whether his mother Lady Yin was his father Li Gao's wife or concubine. He was Li Gao's second son, and so after Li Gao declared independence from Northern Liang and founded Western Liang in 400, it was not he, but his older brother Li Tan (李譚), who was created heir apparent. The first historical reference to him was in 404, when Li Tan died, and Li Gao created him heir apparent to replace Li Tan.

In 410, Li Xin fought a battle with the Northern Liang prince Juqu Mengxun when Juqu Mengxun attacked Western Liang, but was defeated by Juqu Mengxun, and his general Zhu Yuanhu (朱元虎) was captured, forcing Li Gao to use gold and silver to ransom Zhu. In 411, he returned the favor, as after Juqu Mengxun made another attack on Western Liang but was forced to withdraw after his food supplies ran out, Li Xin attacked the Northern Liang army and dealt Juqu Mengxun a defeat, capturing Juqu Mengxun's general Juqu Bainian (沮渠百年).

In 417, Li Gao grew ill, and after entrusting Li Xin to his own half-brother Song Yao (宋繇) -- telling him that Li Xin was now his son -- died. Li Xin succeeded him as duke, and Lady Yin was honored as princess dowager.