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Accession and Reign of Emperor Gaozong of Tang

Type Event Region China Time 649–683

Li Zhi ascended the throne as Emperor Gaozong in 649 and reigned 34 years; Wu Zetian gradually took over governance, and the Tang reached its greates…

Timeline

  1. 649Chang'an · ShaanxiAfter Emperor Taizong Li Shimin died, Crown Prince Li Zhi ascended the throne, changed the era name to Yonghui, honored Zhangsun Wuji and Chu Suiliang as regent ministers, and continued the Zhenguan institutions.
  2. 649–655Chang'an · ShaanxiIn the early part of his reign, Gaozong governed diligently, revised the Tang Code with Commentary, reformed administration, and continued to strengthen the state; this period is known as the 'Yonghui Governance,' a continuation of the Zhenguan prosperity.
  3. 660–683Luoyang · HenanSuffering from chronic dizziness, Gaozong allowed Wu Zetian, initially empress, to gradually take charge of court affairs; memorials were all decided by her, forming the 'Two Sages' joint rule and shifting the center of Tang political power.
  4. 683Shangyang Palace, Luoyang · HenanGaozong died at Shangyang Palace in Luoyang; his edict named Crown Prince Li Xian as successor. Wu Zetian, as empress dowager, assumed regency, and the Tang entered a post-Gaozong transitional period.

Sources