In the long history of the Tang Dynasty, disputes and power struggles within the royal family occurred frequently. Princess Taiping, as the aunt of Li Longji (also known as Emperor Xuanzong), was originally his ally, but was eventually executed in political struggle. What are the reasons behind this event?

I. Identity and Status of Princess Taiping

Princess Taiping was the daughter of Emperor Gaozong Li Zhi and Empress Wu Zetian. She was pampered since childhood and held a noble status. Smart and capable, she was deeply loved by her parents and accumulated considerable political influence during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian.

II. Alliance between Li Longji and Princess Taiping

During the reign of Emperor Zhongzong Li Xian and Emperor Ruizong Li Dan, Li Longji (Emperor Xuanzong) formed a political alliance with Princess Taiping to consolidate his position. Princess Taiping used her influence to help Li Longji eliminate rivals and fight against other princes and powerful officials.

III. Escalation of Power Struggle

As Li Longji ascended the throne as Emperor Xuanzong, he began to strengthen centralization of power and weaken the power of the nobility. At this time, the contradiction between Princess Taiping, as a powerful representative of the local forces, and Emperor Xuanzong gradually emerged. She possessed vast wealth and connections, exerting considerable influence on court affairs.

IV. Change in Emperor Xuanzong's Policies

To consolidate his royal power, Emperor Xuanzong began to take a series of measures to restrict the power of the royal family and meritocrats. In this process, Princess Taiping, with her special status and influence, became a potential threat in Emperor Xuanzong's eyes.

V. The Trigger for Execution

In 713 AD, the "Golden Chicken Incident" occurred, and Princess Taiping was suspected of being involved. This became the direct cause for Emperor Xuanzong to take action against her. Following this incident, Emperor Xuanzong ordered the execution of Princess Taiping to eliminate the political threat.

VI. Conclusion

The execution of Princess Taiping reflects the cruelty of power struggles even within the royal family during the process of centralization of royal power in the Tang Dynasty. The relationship between Emperor Xuanzong and Princess Taiping, from initial allies to ultimate rivals, reveals that in the face of absolute power, personal fate and familial affection can become fragile. This historical event is not only a manifestation of the ruthlessness of power struggles but also a microcosm of the political changes in that era.

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