In Chinese history, the only woman who officially became emperor was Wu Zetian of the Tang Dynasty, later known as Empress Wu. She was the first and only female emperor in Chinese history. So, how did Empress Wu rise from an ordinary woman to become the ruler of a country? This article will analyze the rise of Empress Wu in detail.

II. Early Life of Empress Wu

Empress Wu was born into an official family, with her father serving as an official in the Tang Dynasty. She was intelligent and had outstanding appearance since childhood. At the age of 14, she was selected into the palace and became a concubine of Emperor Taizong Li Shimin, known as a low-ranking palace maid. With her talent and wit, she gradually emerged in the palace.

III. The Path to Power for Empress Wu

After the death of Emperor Taizong Li Shimin, Empress Wu was sent to a Buddhist temple as a nun as one of the concubines mentioned in the will. However, she did not sink into despair but used her wisdom and beauty to return to the palace and become the queen of Emperor Gaozong Li Zhi. As queen, Empress Wu began to demonstrate her political talent and ambition.

IV. Overthrowing Li Xi'an and Grasping Actual Power

In the later years of Emperor Gaozong Li Zhi, his health declined, and state affairs gradually fell into the hands of Empress Wu. In 683 AD, Emperor Gaozong died, and his son Li Xi'an ascended the throne, known as Emperor Zhongzong of Tang. However, Empress Wu did not give up power to Li Xi'an but instead treated him as a puppet emperor, keeping the actual power firmly in her hands. Soon after, Empress Wu deposed Li Xi'an and proclaimed herself emperor, establishing the "Zhou" dynasty (known as "Wu Zhou" in history), becoming the only female emperor in Chinese history.

V. Conclusion

Empress Wu's rise to power was full of intrigue and wisdom. She rose from an ordinary woman to become the ruler of a country step by step, relying on her talent, wit, and ambition. Her success not only changed her own destiny but also rewrote Chinese history. Although her means caused many controversies, her intelligence and courage undoubtedly deserve admiration.

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