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- Herausgeber: Heritage Books
- Kategorie: Für Kinder und Jugendliche
- Sprache: Englisch
Empress Wu Zetian: China’s Only Female Emperor tells the captivating story of the woman who defied tradition and rose to the highest position of power in ancient China. As the only female emperor in Chinese history, Wu Zetian's reign was marked by political brilliance, bold reforms, and fierce determination. This book explores her extraordinary journey from concubine to ruler, shedding light on the challenges she faced, the controversies surrounding her rule, and the lasting impact she left on China. A compelling read for history lovers, this book brings to life the strength and ambition of a woman who changed the course of history.
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Seitenzahl: 41
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024
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EMPRESS WU ZETIAN: CHINA’S ONLY FEMALE EMPEROR
COPYRIGHT PAGE
Empress Wu Zetian: China’s Only Female Emperor
Copyright © 2024 Minerva Smith.
No part of this ebook may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations used in reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
Table of Contents
Title Page
Copyright Page
DISCLAIMER
THE REMARKABLE LIFE OF WU ZETIAN
EARLY LIFE AND RISE TO POWER
THE ROAD TO EMPRESS
EMPRESS REGENT: GOVERNING IN THE EMPEROR’S NAME
BECOMING EMPEROR: FOUNDING THE ZHOU DYNASTY
WU ZETIAN’S POLICIES AND REFORMS
OPPOSITION, CHALLENGES, AND CONTROVERSIES
WU ZETIAN’S LEGACY AND THE RETURN OF THE TANG
THE HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL IMPACT OF WU ZETIAN
WU ZETIAN’S PLACE IN HISTORY
DISCLAIMER
The information provided in this book is for educational and informational purposes only. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this book is accurate, up-to-date, and helpful. However, no responsibility is assumed by the author or publisher for any loss or damage resulting from the use of this book or the information contained herein
THE REMARKABLE LIFE OF WU ZETIAN
Wu Zetian stands as one of the most extraordinary figures in Chinese history, not only for her achievements but for the barriers she broke along the way. As China’s only female emperor, Wu Zetian’s life defied the expectations of her time, and her story is one of determination, intelligence, and ruthless ambition. Born into a society that offered women little political power, Wu Zetian rose from a palace concubine to seize the throne, ruling China with a firm hand for over four decades.
The Tang Dynasty under her reign experienced transformational changes. She was responsible for major changes to the political and cultural systems of the entire empire. Many changes, from emphasizing educational institutions and recruitment of civil servants by competitive examinations to economic sustenance, were instituted during and after Wu Zetian’s time. However, her rule was also tainted with controversy—in her posterity, there existed inflating allegations of cruelty and manipulations. To some, she was a progressive and visionary leader, while to others, she was a power-obsessed despot.
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The biography of Wu Zetian, the emperor in question, is the main focus of this book. We will follow how she ascended to power, the methods she used to keep it, and the barriers against her from those who would not accept a kingdom ruled by a woman. It is through her policies and choices, and most importantly through the politics of the imperial court, that we will come to appreciate her role in one of the most famous dynasties in the history of China.
In a nutshell, this book "The Empress Wu Zetian: China’s Only Female Emperor" walks us through the aspects of Wu Zetian’s legacy that are quite different and opposing, that is a powerful reign, and a multifaceted personality. Her story is at some point the history of a very influential figure, and at another point, the history of a woman who shaped in varying ways the empire she lived in.
EARLY LIFE AND RISE TO POWER
Wu Zetian’s journey to becoming China’s only female emperor began in the most unlikely of ways. Born in 624 AD into a wealthy and influential aristocratic family, Wu Zhao—her birth name—was destined for a life of privilege, though no one could have predicted the heights she would eventually reach. Her father was a successful timber merchant, and her family’s status allowed her to receive an education that was uncommon for women of her time. She grew up surrounded by books, learning about politics, literature, and philosophy—skills that would later serve her well in the world of imperial court intrigue.
From an early age, Wu Zetian was exposed to the inner workings of power. Her sharp intellect and curiosity set her apart, and she quickly developed an understanding of the political forces that shaped China. Unlike most women of her era, who were expected to focus on domestic life, Wu Zetian absorbed the lessons of governance and diplomacy that her father and his associates discussed. This foundation laid the groundwork for her remarkable ascent.
At the age of 14, Wu was selected to enter the imperial court as a concubine to Emperor Taizong, the second emperor of the Tang Dynasty. While she wasn’t one of his favored consorts, her time in the court was crucial in her political education. She observed how decisions were made, how alliances were formed, and how influence was wielded behind the scenes. These lessons would later be invaluable as she navigated the treacherous waters of the palace.
