Li Longji, a controversial emperor in the history of the Tang Dynasty, was both the grandson of Wu Zetian and the husband of Yang Guifei. His folly in his later years led to the Anshi Rebellion, which caused the Tang Empire to decline from prosperity. This article will briefly introduce Li Longji's life and the significant events during his reign.

I. Early Experiences of Li Longji

Li Longji, also known as Emperor Xuanzong, was the grandson of Emperor Taizong Li Shimin and Wu Zetian. He was intelligent from childhood and favored by his grandmother Wu Zetian. During his growth, Li Longji witnessed the power struggles within the family, which made him more proficient in the art of political intrigue.

II. Ascension to the Throne and Wise Reign

1. Ascension to the Throne: After Emperor Zhongzong Li Xian was deposed, Li Longji ascended the throne in 712 and became the emperor of the Tang Dynasty. In the early years of his reign, he actively reorganized politics, selected capable officials, and implemented reforms, gradually leading the country to prosperity.

2. Cultural Exchange: During Li Longji's reign, the cultural arts of the Tang Dynasty reached an unprecedented peak. He encouraged literary creation, attracting a large number of foreign scholars to study in the Tang Dynasty, making Chang'an one of the most prosperous cities in the world at that time.

3. Diplomatic Achievements: During Li Longji's reign, the Tang Dynasty's national prestige spread far and wide, and its interactions with neighboring countries became more frequent. He also consolidated the country's territory through war and diplomatic means.

III. Folly in His Later Years and the Anshi Rebellion

1. Folly in His Later Years: However, as he grew older, Li Longji became indulgent in pleasures, especially his favoritism for Yang Guifei, which caused him to neglect state affairs. He appointed corrupt officials, leading to political corruption and a decline in people's livelihood.

2. The Anshi Rebellion: In 755, An Lushan and Shi Siming launched a rebellion, triggering the eight-year-long Anshi Rebellion. This war caused a significant decline in the Tang Dynasty's national strength, and people's lives were plunged into misery. Although the rebellion was eventually quelled, the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty had become a thing of the past.

Conclusion:

As the grandson of Wu Zetian and the husband of Yang Guifei, Li Longji's life was filled with legend. He was once a wise monarch, but his folly in his later years led to the Anshi Rebellion, causing the Tang Empire to decline from prosperity. His life left us with profound lessons, warning us to remain vigilant and diligent in governing and loving the people.

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