Lý Cao Tông

Quick Facts: Who was Lý Cao Tông?

Subject:

Lý Cao Tông

Known for:

Seventh emperor of the Lý dynasty, whose reign marked a period of decline in Đại Việt.

Born:

1173-07-06

Died:

1210-11-15

Century / Era:

1173s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Lý Cao Tông (6 July 1173 – 15 November 1210), born Lý Long Trát, courtesy name Long Cán, was the seventh emperor of the Lý dynasty, ruled Đại Việt for 35 years. He was enthroned at just three year old and was assisted by the loyal and capable officials such as Tô Hiến Thành, Ngô Lý Tín, which ensured the stability during the early years of his reign. However, when growing up and officially governing, Cao Tông proved to be a hedonistic tyrant. His reign was marked by debauchery, nationwide corruption, legal disorder, harsh forced labor and widespread uprising. His reign entered the irreversible crisis which ultimately led to the fall of the Lý dynasty and the establishment of the Trần dynasty fifteen years after his death.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He was born Lý Long Cán (or Trát) on May 25, 1173, according to the Eastern calendar, in the Thăng Long Imperial Palace and was the sixth son of Lý Anh Tông. His mother was Đỗ Thụy Châu who later became Empress Dowager Đỗ. He was enthroned when he was very young, at the age of three, as one of the youngest Emperors in Vietnam's history. Prior to this, his predecessor Emperor Lý Anh Tông disposed the former Crown Prince Long Xưởng and replaced Prince Cán with this title. Tô Hiến Thành was trusted to become the regent to help the young Emperor run the court and administer his nation.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

It is often noted that his age and inexperience proved to be a minimal disadvantage in his ability to govern. Tô Hiến Thành was considered a talent and competent official when he was conferred the title Regent. After the death of Anh Tông, his uppermost consort (now became Empress Dowager Chiêu Linh, who died in 1200) wanted to dethrone her son Long Xưởng, who was the former Crown Prince. But thanks to Tô Hiến Thành's peremptoriness, Cán eventually became the successor of the throne. Tô Hiến Thành fell ill not long after.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1173 (1173-07-06): Birth of Lý Cao Tông — Seventh emperor of the Lý dynasty, whose reign marked a period of decline in Đại Việt.
2. 1200: 1200 Milestone — After the death of Anh Tông, his uppermost consort (now became Empress Dowager Chiêu Linh, who died in 1200) wanted to dethrone her son Long Xưởng, who was the former Crown Prince.
3. 1210 (1210-11-15): Passing & Historical Legacy — Lý Cao Tông passed away on 1210-11-15, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Lý Cao Tông

True or False: “Emperor Lý Cao Tông's reign was characterized by stable governance and cultural flourishing throughout its entirety.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): His reign is noted for debauchery, corruption, legal disorder, and widespread uprisings, leading to the dynasty's eventual fall.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Llywelyn ab Iorwerth — Contemporary (Born in 1173) (1173): Prince of Gwynedd who consolidated Welsh power and achieved suzerainty over native Welsh rulers.
• Afonso III of Portugal — Contemporary (Born in 1210) (1210): King of Portugal who completed the Reconquista and established the modern state structure.
• Arnaut Daniel — Contemporary (Died in 1210) (1210): A celebrated Occitan troubadour of the 12th century, master of poetic love.
• Fakhr al-Din al-Razi — Contemporary (Died in 1210) (1210): Influential 12th-century Sunni theologian, philosopher, and polymath.
• 14th Dalai Lama — Shared historical date (07-06 · Born) (1935): Spiritual leader of Tibet and head of Tibetan Buddhism since 1940.
• 50 Cent — Shared historical date (07-06 · Born) (1975): Iconic rapper, actor, and entrepreneur known for raw storytelling and business acumen.
• 6th Dalai Lama — Shared historical date (11-15 · Died) (1706): The 6th Dalai Lama, a spiritual figure known for his unconventional lifestyle and profound influence in Tibet.
• Adolfo Pedernera — Shared historical date (11-15 · Born) (1918): Argentine football legend, nicknamed 'El Maestro,' pivotal in the 1940s.
• Guan Hanqing — Historical peer (Born in 1210) (1210): A celebrated Yuan dynasty playwright, poet, and master of vernacular drama.
• Jinul — Historical peer (Died in 1210) (1210): Founding figure of Korean Seon (Zen) Buddhism and the Jogye Order.
• 1173 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1173
• July 6 (07-06) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on July 6
• 1210 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1210
• November 15 (11-15) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on November 15

Frequently Asked Questions about Lý Cao Tông