Tang Taizong Li Shimin is famous in history for his wise rule and profound strategic vision. However, the issue of his throne inheritance was full of controversy and bloodshed. Why did he only kill Li You instead of Li Chengqian? The reasons behind this deserve further exploration.

Firstly, we need to understand that Li Shimin's decision was not based on personal emotions, but on considerations of national stability and political interests. Both Li You and Li Chengqian were his sons, but he treated them very differently.

Li You was Li Shimin's younger son by a concubine, and he played an important role in the rebellion led by his brother Li Jiancheng. Li You's actions seriously threatened the stability of the country, and therefore, Li Shimin took a severe approach towards him. By contrast, Li Chengqian was Li Shimin's eldest son by his primary wife, and he did not participate in the rebellion. Therefore, Li Shimin's attitude towards him was relatively lenient.

Secondly, Li Shimin's different treatments of Li You and Li Chengqian also reflect his understanding and respect for the rules of throne inheritance. In the social environment of that time, the primogeniture system was the mainstream rule for throne inheritance. As a wise monarch, Li Shimin understood that breaking this rule could lead to greater chaos and conflict.

Finally, we cannot ignore the possibility that Li Shimin's decision may have been influenced by his personal emotions. Although historical records do not explicitly mention his feelings towards his two sons, as a father, he may have had a deeper emotional bond with Li Chengqian.

Overall, Li Shimin's decision to only kill Li You instead of Li Chengqian was based on a comprehensive consideration of national stability, respect for the rules of throne inheritance, and personal emotions. Although this decision caused some controversy, it also demonstrated his wisdom and determination.

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