Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history, led a legendary life. However, in her later years of rule, she made an unexpected decision - to return the throne to the Li Tang dynasty. Why did Wu Zetian make such a decision? This article will explore this question from three perspectives: politics, family, and personal reasons.

First, political reasons:

1. To maintain national stability:

During Wu Zetian's reign, although the country's politics were stable, there were numerous internal conflicts. Her rule was opposed by many scholars and bureaucrats. To quell these conflicts and maintain national stability, Wu Zetian decided to return the throne to the Li Tang dynasty.

2. To avoid a succession struggle:

During Wu Zetian's reign, although she had many children, she did not clearly designate an heir. This led to intense competition for the throne within and outside the court. To prevent a succession struggle and ensure the long-term stability of the country, Wu Zetian chose to return the throne to the Li Tang dynasty.

Second, family reasons:

1. To maintain family reputation:

Wu Zetian came from the Wu family, and during her reign, the status of the Wu family reached its peak. However, as her rule came under scrutiny, the reputation of the Wu family was also affected. To protect the family's reputation and show that she was not a power-hungry emperor, Wu Zetian decided to return the throne to the Li Tang dynasty.

2. To safeguard family interests:

During Wu Zetian's reign, although the Wu family enjoyed high status, internal conflicts within the family began to emerge as she aged. To ensure the long-term prosperity of the family, Wu Zetian chose to return the throne to the Li Tang dynasty.

Third, personal reasons:

1. To reflect on her own rule:

During Wu Zetian's reign, although the country's politics were stable, her rule was controversial. As she aged, Wu Zetian began to reflect on her reign and realized that it may have burdened the country and its people. Therefore, she decided to return the throne to the Li Tang dynasty as a show of repentance.

2. To uphold the spirit of the Zhenguan period:

During Wu Zetian's reign, although the country's politics were stable, she could never shake off the shadow of the Zhenguan period. To uphold the spirit of the Zhenguan period, Wu Zetian chose to return the throne to the Li Tang dynasty as a show of respect.

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