Emperor Reizei
The 63rd Emperor of Japan, reigning briefly from 967 to 969.
Quick Facts: Who was Emperor Reizei?
- Subject:
- Emperor Reizei
- Known for:
- The 63rd Emperor of Japan, reigning briefly from 967 to 969.
- Born:
- 950-06-12
- Died:
- 1011-11-21
- Century / Era:
- 950s Historical Era Archive
- Verified Source:
- 2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives
Origins & Early Life
Emperor Reizei (冷泉天皇, Reizei-tennō; June 12, 950 – November 21, 1011) was the 63rd emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession. Reizei's reign spanned the years from 967 through 969, ending with his abdication and retirement. Before his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne, his personal name (his imina) was Norihira-shinnō (憲平親王). Norihira-shinnō was the second son of Emperor Murakami. His mother, Empress Yasuko, was a daughter of minister of the right Fujiwara no Morosuke.
Career & Major Achievements
Soon after his birth he was appointed as crown prince, displacing the Emperor's first-born son with the daughter of Fujiwara no Motokata. This decision was supposedly made under the influence of Morosuke and his brother Fujiwara no Saneyori who had seized power in the court. Motokata soon died, in despair at having lost the prospect of being grandfather to the next emperor. The malevolent influence of Motokata's vengeful spirit (怨霊, onryō) was blamed for Norihira-shinnō's mental illness, which resulted in Saneyori acting as regent for the duration of his short reign. From ancient times, there have been four noble clans, the Gempeitōkitsu (源平藤橘).
Enduring Legacy & Impact
One of these clans, the Minamoto clan (源氏) are also known as Genji, and of these, the Reizei Genji (冷泉源氏) are descended from 63rd emperor Reizei. Questions about mental illness made Norihira-shinnō's succession somewhat problematic. In 967 his father Murakami died and Reizei ascended to the throne at the age of eighteen. July 5, 967 (Kōhō 4, 25th day of the 5th month): In the 16th year of Emperor Murakami's reign (村上天皇十六年), he died; and the succession (‘‘senso’’) was received by his second son. Shortly thereafter, Emperor Reizei is said to have acceded to the throne (‘‘sokui’’).
Chronological Milestones & Life Events
Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Emperor Reizei
True or False: “Emperor Reizei's reign was marked by political instability due to the influence of powerful court families like the Fujiwara.”
Answer (TRUE ⭕): The text notes that his succession involved complex dynamics influenced by figures such as Fujiwara no Morosuke and his brother.
Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines
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- 950 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 950
- June 12 (06-12) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on June 12
- 1011 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1011
- November 21 (11-21) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on November 21
Frequently Asked Questions about Emperor Reizei
Who was Emperor Reizei and what are their primary contributions?
The 63rd Emperor of Japan, reigning briefly from 967 to 969. Origins & Early Life: Emperor Reizei (冷泉天皇, Reizei-tennō; June 12, 950 – November 21, 1011) was the 63rd emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession. Reizei's reign spanned the years from 967 through 969, ending with his abdication and retirement. Before his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne, his personal name (his imina) was Norihira-shinnō (憲平親王). Norihira-shinnō was the second son of Emperor Murakami. His mother, Empress Yasuko, was a daughter of minister of the right Fujiwara no Morosuke.
When was Emperor Reizei born and during which historical era did they live?
Emperor Reizei was born on 0950-06-12 and passed away on 1011-11-21. For complete historical world events during this era, explore the 950 Chrono-Archive.
Where can I read more verified chronological archives on Emperor Reizei?
Explore verified primary sources, interactive timelines, and contemporary figures in the 2Day Chrono-Wiki encyclopedia or review the original entry on Wikipedia.
Source: Wikipedia