Wu Zetian, a name that left a profound imprint in Chinese history. She was a female politician during the Tang Dynasty and the only female emperor in Chinese history. Her life was full of legendary colors, let's take a look at her real historical story together.

I. Wu Zetian's Background and Early Years

Wu Zetian (624-705), originally named Wu Meiniang, styled Zhao, was born in Weinan, Shaanxi. She came from a prominent family, with her father being Wu Shiyao, a founding hero of the Tang Dynasty. As a young woman, Wu Zetian was intelligent, clever, and beautiful. She was later selected to join the palace of Emperor Taizong Li Shimin as a concubine.

II. Wu Zetian's Political Career

1. Emperor Taizong's Reign: In the palace of Emperor Taizong, Wu Zetian gradually gained the emperor's favor through her intelligence and beauty. She made many connections with powerful officials and accumulated political resources.

2. Emperor Gaozong's Reign: After Emperor Taizong's death, Wu Zetian became Queen Consort of Emperor Gaozong Li Zhi. She actively participated in politics, advising Emperor Gaozong. During Emperor Gaozong's illness, Wu Zetian took control of the throne and wielded great power.

3. Self-Declaration as Emperor: In 690 AD, Wu Zetian deposed Emperor Ruizong Li Dan and declared herself emperor, establishing the Wu Zhou dynasty. She was the only female emperor in Chinese history, breaking the precedent for women's participation in politics.

III. Wu Zetian's Political Achievements

1. Political Reform: During her reign, Wu Zetian implemented a series of political reforms, such as selecting talented officials and reorganizing the bureaucracy, which brought a degree of clarity to national politics.

2. Economic Development: Wu Zetian valued agricultural production, promoting the "Equal Field System" to distribute land to farmers and encourage agricultural growth. She also promoted commercial trade, leading to national economic prosperity.

3. Cultural Prosperity: Wu Zetian was a lover of culture. She vigorously promoted cultural education during her reign, bringing the cultural cause of the Tang Dynasty to a new peak.

IV. Wu Zetian's Later Years and Death

Although Wu Zetian achieved some political successes during her reign, her rule also had many problems, such as autocracy and cruelty. In 705 AD, Wu Zetian was forced to abdicate and passed the throne to Emperor Zhongzong Li Xian. Shortly after, Wu Zetian died in Luoyang at the age of 81.

Conclusion: Wu Zetian was the only female emperor in Chinese history, and her life was full of legendary colors. During her reign, she implemented a series of political reforms, promoted national economic development and cultural prosperity. However, her rule also had many issues, ultimately leading to her abdication. Regardless, Wu Zetian remains an influential female politician in Chinese history.

　　Disclaimer: The above content is sourced from the internet and the copyright belongs to the original author. If there is any infringement of your original copyright, please inform us and we will delete the relevant content as soon as possible.