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Wu Zetian

Type Figure Region China Time 624–705 Also known as Wu Zhao、Emperor Zetian the Great Sage、Empress Heavenly

Wu Zetian (624–705), the only legitimate female emperor in Chinese history. First a talented lady of Emperor Taizong of Tang, later empress of Empero…

Timeline

  1. 655–683Chang'an · Xi'anAfter being established as empress she took part in court affairs; because Gaozong was ill in his later years, Wu Zetian as Heavenly Empress was jointly styled the Two Sages with the emperor, actually controlling central decision-making.
  2. 684–690Luoyang · LuoyangAfter Gaozong's death she deposed Zhongzong and installed Ruizong, governing as empress dowager behind the curtain, employing cruel officials and striking at the Guanzhong-Shaanxi gentry clans, preparing for a change of dynasty.
  3. 690–705Luoyang · LuoyangShe changed the state title to Zhou, proclaimed herself emperor at the divine capital Luoyang, and instituted the palace examination and the bronze casket system. After the Shenlong Coup she abdicated, returning power to Tang, and received the honorific title Emperor Zetian the Great Sage.

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