Tang Taizong Li Shimin was the second emperor of the Tang Dynasty, who established the famous "Zhenguan Period" in Chinese history, an era of political clarity, economic prosperity, and cultural prosperity. However, all dynasties must face the reality of the succession of power. This article will explore who became the emperor of the Tang Dynasty after Tang Taizong and how he assumed the burden of history.

I. The Inheritor of Tang Taizong

After the death of Tang Taizong Li Shimin, the throne was inherited by his ninth son Li Zhi, known as Tang Gaozong. During Li Zhi's reign, he continued to implement the policies of the Taizong period, maintaining the stability and development of the country. In the early years of Tang Gaozong's reign, due to his young age, state affairs were mainly handled by the assistant ministers, the most famous of which was Wu Zetian, who later became the only female emperor in Chinese history.

II. The Reign of Tang Gaozong

During Tang Gaozong's reign, the territory of the Tang Dynasty further expanded, especially the control of the Western Regions was strengthened. At the same time, it was also a golden age for the development of culture and art, with Tang poetry reaching an unprecedented peak. However, in the later years of Tang Gaozong's reign, power gradually fell into the hands of Wu Zetian, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Wu Zhou dynasty and the temporary interruption of the Tang Dynasty.

III. Evaluation of Tang Gaozong's Reign

Historians have different views on the evaluation of Tang Gaozong. On the one hand, he inherited the policies of Taizong, maintained the strength of the country, and promoted the development of culture; on the other hand, his control over power was not as strong as his father's, which ultimately led to the rise of Wu Zetian and the establishment of Wu Zhou. Nevertheless, during Tang Gaozong's reign, the overall trend of the Tang Dynasty still developed in a positive direction.

Conclusion:

After Tang Taizong, the throne of the Tang Dynasty was inherited by Li Zhi. As the son of Taizong, he shouldered the important task of continuing to promote national development. Under his reign, the territory, economy, and culture of the Tang Dynasty all developed, but his insufficient control over power ultimately led to the brief replacement of Wu Zhou. Nevertheless, Tang Gaozong's reign is still an indispensable part of the history of the Tang Dynasty, and he has, to some extent, continued the legacy of the "Zhenguan Period".

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