Li Yiji (郦食其), a native of Gaoyang (present-day southwest Qi County, Henan), was an advisor to Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty. Though well-read and ambitious, he was impoverished and known for his love of wine, earning him the moniker 'mad scholar' among the locals.

When Liu Bang's army approached Gaoyang, Li Yiji, then over sixty years old, sought an audience. Liu Bang, who usually disdained scholars, was having his feet washed and initially refused to see him. Incensed, Li Yiji declared, 'Go tell Lord Pei (Liu Bang) that I am a drunkard from Gaoyang, not a mere scholar!' Liu Bang, startled by the bold declaration, quickly invited him in. Li Yiji criticized Liu Bang's arrogance and then offered a strategic plan: capture Chenliu, a key transportation hub rich in grain. He volunteered to persuade the Chenliu magistrate to surrender peacefully. When the magistrate refused, Li Yiji swiftly killed him, displayed his head, and opened the city gates for Liu Bang's army. This act secured vital provisions and soldiers, proving crucial for Liu Bang's early success against the Qin Dynasty.

Li Yiji became a significant strategist for Liu Bang, earning the title 'Lord Guangye.' He later played a key role in persuading various warlords to join Liu Bang. During the Chu-Han Contention, he advised Liu Bang on a comprehensive strategy and was sent to persuade King Tian Guang of Qi to surrender. While he was successfully negotiating, Han Xin, another general under Liu Bang, attacked Qi, leading Tian Guang to believe Li Yiji had betrayed him. King Tian Guang tragically had Li Yiji boiled alive.

Despite his untimely death, Li Yiji's legacy lived on; Liu Bang honored his son. Over time, while Li Yiji's personal name faded, 'Gaoyang Jiusu' (高阳酒徒) became an idiom, often used to proudly describe a heavy drinker with an unconventional and unrestrained character.