Career
In 1852 he was chosen to lead the Nien, and in 1856 was bestowed with the title "Lord of the Alliance" when the Nien organised themselves under a banner system inspired by the Eight Banners of the ruling Qing Dynasty. Zhang also at this time claimed the title of "Great Han Prince with the Mandate of Heaven". Despite the apparent loss of leadership, the Nien rebellion would continue for another five years, with Sengge Richen being killed in a Nien ambush only two years after Zhang"s death.