A Chinese warlord refers to a military leader who exercises control over a specific region in China, often during periods of political instability. These warlords typically commanded their own armies and operated independently of the central government, especially during the Warlord Era (1916-1928) when China was fragmented after the fall of the Qing Dynasty. Warlords often engaged in battles for territory and power, leading to significant conflict and suffering for the civilian population. Some notable warlords include Yuan Shikai and Zhang Zuolin, who played crucial roles in shaping China's political landscape during the early 20th century.