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Deposition of Emperor Zhongzong and Accession of Ruizong

Type Event Region China Time 684

In February 684, Wu Zetian deposed Li Xian for seeking sole power and appointing the Wei clan, installing her younger son Li Dan as emperor.

Timeline

  1. 684Chang'an · GuanzhongAfter acceding, Zhongzong sought to appoint his father-in-law Wei Xuanzhen as chancellor and declared 'I wish to entrust the realm to the Wei clan,' sharply clashing with Wu Zetian's regency system; the Empress Dowager resolved to depose him.
  2. 684Chang'an · GuanzhongIn the same second month, Wu Zetian assembled the officials and announced Zhongzong's deposition as Prince of Luling, installing Prince of Xiang Li Dan as emperor. Though enthroned, Li Dan was barred from state affairs; real power remained with the Empress Dowager.

Sources