Statecraft & Independence
Landmark
Wu Zetian
624 β 705
The only woman to rule China as emperor in her own name
Landmark is level 2 of 4 in the China Hall of Fame: a first that opened a door, or the pre-eminent figure of their generation in this country. See how the levels work.
Why they are here
A Tang dynasty consort who rose to rule the empire, first through her husband and sons and then as emperor of her own Zhou dynasty.
Wu Zetian became the consort of Emperor Gaozong and effectively governed during his long illness. In 690 she declared her own dynasty and ruled as emperor until 705.
She expanded the examination system, promoted officials of talent from outside the old aristocracy and was a major patron of Buddhism. Traditional historians were hostile to her, and her reputation has been reassessed in modern times.
She expanded the examination system, promoted officials of talent from outside the old aristocracy and was a major patron of Buddhism. Traditional historians were hostile to her, and her reputation has been reassessed in modern times.
Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we will check it.