Listen to the intriguing story of Wu Zetian, China's only female emperor, who rose to power through cunning and ruthlessness in a male-dominated society. Explore her beauty, brilliance, and strategic maneuvers that led to her eventual claim to the throne.
Wu Zetian defied gender norms to rise to power through intelligence and manipulation.
Her reign introduced significant policy reforms but was marked by ruthless executions and control tactics.
Deep dives
The Rise of Wu Zetian
Wu Zetian, born in 624 during the Tang Dynasty, was raised with an education that surpassed traditional gender norms, learning politics, history, and even playing music and writing poetry. Initially a concubine for Emperor Taisong, she impressed him with her intelligence, leading to her promotion to personal secretary and involvement in state affairs. Through strategic relationships and circumstances, she rose in power and eventually became Empress through manipulation and eliminating threats.
Consolidation of Power
Upon Emperor Taisong's death, Wu Zetian secured her position by becoming Emperor Gao Zhong's first concubine, prompting jealousy and challenges from other women in the Imperial Court. After bearing sons, she eliminated rivals by accusing them of witchcraft and murder, ultimately leading to her elevation to Empress in 655. Wu Zetian's influence grew as she controlled the weak Emperor, consolidating her authority and paving the way for her eventual rule.
Reign and Legacy
Wu Zetian's reign marked significant policy changes in China, including civil service reforms, taxation restructuring, and the elevation of Buddhism as the state religion. Despite her popular policies, she maintained power through a secret police force and ruthless executions. Wu Zetian's rule ended in 705 when she passed the throne to her son, concluding a unique and controversial legacy as one of China's most notable rulers.
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Exploring the Legacy of China's Only Female Emperor
In the very long history of China, it has had exactly one female ruler.
She was a woman who managed, against all odds, to inch her way closer to power over a period of years until she reached a point where she could claim power for herself.
By all accounts, she was beautiful, brilliant, cunning, and absolutely ruthless.
Learn more about Wu Zetian, China’s only female emperor, on this episode of Everything Everywhere Daily.