← Explore on the interactive map

Yao Chong

Type Figure Region China Time 651–721 Also known as Yao Yuanzhi、Duke of Liang

Yao Chong (651–721), a famous Tang chancellor from Xiashi in Shanzhou, served under Wu Zetian, Zhongzong, Ruizong, and Xuanzong, renowned for compete…

Timeline

  1. 651–680Xiashi, Shanzhou · SanmenxiaYao Chong was born at Xiashi in Shanzhou, entering service through the mingjing examination; in his early years he served as magistrate of Jia County and Vice Minister of the Bureau of Military Affairs, already displaying political talent under Wu Zetian.
  2. 680–710Luoyang · LuoyangUnder Wu Zetian Yao Chong rose to Vice Minister of the Phoenix Chamber and concurrent chancellor, participating in court decision-making. Though briefly posted out of the capital under Zhongzong, his political experience steadily deepened.
  3. 710–713Chang'an · Xi'anIn Ruizong's reign Yao Chong and Song Jing jointly supported Xuanzong's enthronement. In the second year of Xiantian he helped Xuanzong defeat Princess Taiping's partisans, then directed court governance, rectifying administration, cutting redundant officials, and curbing the monastery economy.
  4. 713–721Luoyang · LuoyangYao Chong was dismissed as chancellor early in the Kaiyuan era, later created Duke of Liang, still consulted on major military and state affairs. He died in Luoyang in the ninth year of Kaiyuan; Xuanzong posthumously granted him the title Governor-General of Yangzhou, with the posthumous name Wenxian.

Sources