Liu Mingchuan vs Stepa Stepanovic

Liu Mingchuan organized the defense of northern Taiwan against French forces during the Sino-French War. He successfully defended Keelung and prevented the French from capturing Taipei, preserving Qing control over the island.

Liu Mingchuan was appointed the first Governor of Taiwan after the island was elevated to a province of the Qing Empire. This appointment gave him authority to implement major reforms and modernization projects.

Liu Mingchuan established a modern arsenal in Taipei to produce weapons and ammunition for Taiwan's defense. The arsenal reduced dependence on imports and strengthened the island's military capability.

Liu Mingchuan initiated the construction of Taiwan's first railway, telegraph lines, and modern ports. These projects improved transportation and communication on the island, facilitating economic development and administrative control.

Stepanovic commanded the Serbian 2nd Army at the Battle of Cer, the first Allied victory of World War I. His forces defeated the Austro-Hungarian 5th Army, forcing them to retreat across the Drina River.

Stepanovic was promoted to field marshal (vojvoda) by King Petar I after his victory at the Battle of Cer. He was the first Serbian officer to receive this rank in World War I.

Stepanovic commanded the Serbian 2nd Army on the Salonika Front. His forces participated in the Allied offensives that eventually broke the front in 1918, leading to the liberation of Serbia.