How did Xu Da help the Hongwu emperor overthrow the Yuan dynasty?

Xu Da was the primary military strategist and leading general who enabled the Hongwu emperor to overthrow the Yuan dynasty. After joining the future emperor’s rebel forces in 1353, Xu Da played a pivotal role in the military campaigns to unify China.1

Following the pacification of the south, the Hongwu emperor tasked Xu Da and fellow general Chang Yuchun with leading northern expeditions. Xu Da’s military success was instrumental in the collapse of Mongol authority:2

• Capture of Dadu: In August 1368, Xu Da led Ming forces into the Yuan capital of Dadu (later Beijing). The capture was executed with such precision that local commerce reportedly continued without interruption.12
• Northern Campaigns: After the establishment of the Ming dynasty, Xu Da pursued retreating Mongol forces across the Gobi Desert. He successfully burned the Mongol capital of Karakorum and advanced as far north as the Transbaikalia region, effectively decimating the Mongol armies.1

In recognition of his essential contributions, the Hongwu emperor honored Xu Da by placing his image in the top position of the Ming Temple of Men of Merit.1