During the Western Han Dynasty, Tian Yannian, the governor of Hedong, was inspecting Pingyang, Huo Guang's hometown. He discovered that Yin Wenggui, a market official, was a rare talent. Tian Yannian then submitted a petition to the emperor, recommending Yin Wenggui to be appointed as the governor of Donghai.

Donghai Prefecture was a chaotic place, dominated by powerful local families and rampant with bandits.

Upon taking office, Yin Wenggui decided to apply the principle of 'kill one to warn a hundred'. He publicly executed Xu Zhongsun, a notorious and powerful local strongman. As a result, no one dared to break the law, and Donghai became stable and peaceful.