Ma Yuan was a famous general during the Eastern Han Dynasty. In his youth, he served as an official. On one occasion, he released a prisoner and then fled to a remote village in Gansu province.

During the reign of Emperor Guangwu of Han, he went to battle to resist foreign invaders. He fought against the Xiongnu and attacked Jiaozhi, achieving numerous military successes. Emperor Guangwu bestowed upon him the title of 'Fubo General' (General Who Quells the Waves).

Not long after, General Liu Shang, known as 'General of Mighty Power,' was killed in battle in Guizhou. Upon hearing the news, Emperor Guangwu was very concerned about the war situation there. Although Ma Yuan was over sixty years old, he voluntarily requested to lead an expedition. He declared, 'A true man should serve his country on a distant campaign, and have his body wrapped in horse hide for burial!'

He led his troops to Guizhou, bravely defeated the enemy, but unfortunately died of illness on the battlefield later.