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Gao Taotao

Type Figure Region China Time c. 1032–1093 Also known as Empress Xuanren Shenglie、Empress Gao、Dowager Empress Gao

Gao Taotao (c. 1032–1093), empress of Song Shenzong and mother of Zhezong, ruled as dowager behind the curtain after Shenzong's death in 1085, curbin…

Timeline

  1. 1048–1066Bianjing Imperial Palace · KaifengGao Taotao came from a military family, entered the palace as a child, and was later chosen as consort of Zhao Xu, eldest son of Yingzong. She lived in the Eastern Palace, bore princes including Zhezong (Zhao Xu), and was renowned for her virtue and prudence while the succession was undecided.
  2. 1067–1070Bianjing Imperial Palace · KaifengAfter Shenzong ascended the throne, Lady Gao was enthroned as empress. During the Xining era she resided in the inner palace, assisted Shenzong, and raised the imperial princes, exerting important influence over palace order and succession arrangements, laying the foundation for her later regency.
  3. 1085–1093Bianjing · KaifengAfter Shenzong's death, the young Zhezong succeeded; Gao Taotao was honored as dowager empress and ruled behind the curtain, changing the era name to Yuanyou, recalling Sima Guang and other conservative faction members, and abolishing the New Policies — known as the Yuanyou Reform, a major shift in Northern Song political direction.

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