Origins & Early Life

Emperor Gaozong of Tang (21 July 628 – 27 December 683), personal name Li Zhi, was the third emperor of the Chinese Tang dynasty, ruling from 649 to 683; after January 665, he handed power over the empire to his second wife Empress Wu (the future Wu Zetian), and her decrees were carried out with greater force than the decrees of Emperor Gaozong. Emperor Gaozong was the youngest son of Emperor Taizong and Empress Zhangsun; his elder brothers were Li Chengqian and Li Tai. Emperor Gaozong's reign saw the primacy of Empress Wu, who became the effective power behind the Tang rule. Empress Wu aided Emperor Gaozong in his rule during the later years of his reign after a series of strokes left him incapacitated.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Emperor Gaozong effectively after January 665 delegated all matters of state to Empress Wu; after that the empress acted as the power behind the emperor, "hanging the curtain and listening to politics" (垂簾聼政; Chuílián tīngzhèng). Gaozong's personal illness, affection and trust of Wu led to her wielding a great deal of power in affairs of state until the end of his reign. From official histories from the later Tang Dynasty to contemporary historians, there exists a lively debate about...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• Kʼinich Janaabʼ Pakal — Contemporary (Died in 683) (683): Ajaw of Palenque, renowned for his long reign and monumental architectural contributions.
• Yazid I — Contemporary (Died in 683) (683): Second Umayyad Caliph, known for the Battle of Karbala and the start of the Second Fitna.
• Yi Xing — Contemporary (Born in 683) (683): Tang Dynasty Buddhist monk, astronomer, and scholar renowned for calendar reform and esoteric Buddhism.
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• Buchi Emecheta — Shared historical date (07-21 · Born) (1944): Pioneering Nigerian novelist celebrated for exploring themes of womanhood and tradition.
• Ellen Terry — Shared historical date (07-21 · Died) (1928): Pioneering English actress celebrated for Shakespearean roles and enduring stage presence.
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