Wu Zetian: A Detailed Biography

Wu Zetian (624–705 CE) was the only woman in 4,000 years of Chinese history to rule as emperor in her own name. From humble concubine to de-facto ruler of the Tang dynasty and founder of her own Zhou dynasty (690–705), she was one of the most powerful and controversial women who ever lived. This biography covers her rise from palace girl to empress, her 50 years of political dominance, reforms, and complex legacy, as documented by the Encyclopaedia Britannica, the Smithsonian Magazine, and the National Palace Museum, Taipei.

Early Life and Entry into the Palace

Birth and Concubine Years

Born Wu Zhao in 624 (possibly in Wenshui or Lizhou), she came from a wealthy merchant-official family. At age 14 she entered the palace of Emperor Taizong as a low-ranking concubine (cairen). After Taizong’s death in 649, she became a Buddhist nun as custom required, but was recalled by his son Emperor Gaozong, as detailed by the China Highlights.

Rise to Power: From Concubine to Empress

Eliminating Rivals

Wu quickly became Gaozong’s favourite. Tradition claims she strangled her own infant daughter and framed Empress Wang — leading to Wang’s execution in 655 and Wu’s elevation to empress. Modern historians debate the story, but her ruthlessness was legendary, as documented by the History Today.

Co-Ruler and Regent (655–690)

When Gaozong suffered a stroke in 660, Wu ruled in all but name. She reformed the civil service examination system to favour talent over birth, promoted Buddhism, and expanded the empire’s borders. After Gaozong’s death in 683, she ruled as regent for her sons Zhongzong and Ruizong.

Emperor of the Zhou Dynasty (690–705)

At age 65, Wu deposed her son and proclaimed herself Emperor of a new Zhou dynasty — the only woman in Chinese history to take the title Huangdi. She moved the capital to Luoyang, built the massive Mingtang complex, and erected the famous “Wordless Stele” (blank tablet) daring posterity to judge her, as preserved by the Longmen Grottoes.

Administration and Reforms

Wu opened the civil service exams to commoners, reduced taxes on peasants, improved agriculture, and strengthened the military. She also promoted Buddhism as state religion (building the Longmen Grottoes) and suppressed Daoism. Her reign was one of the most prosperous in Tang history, as documented by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Downfall and Death

In 705, at age 81, a palace coup forced Wu to abdicate in favour of her son Zhongzong. She died peacefully on December 16, 705. Buried with Emperor Gaozong in the Qianling Mausoleum, her stele remains blank — a final act of defiance, as detailed by the China Daily.

Personal Life

Wu had four sons and at least two daughters with Gaozong. She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and political skill. Later propaganda painted her as a cruel seductress, but contemporary records show a capable and effective ruler.

Death and Legacy

Wu Zetian’s Enduring Impact

Wu Zetian proved a woman could rule China as effectively as any man. She expanded the empire, reformed the bureaucracy, and opened opportunities for talented commoners. Though vilified by Confucian historians for centuries, modern China and feminist scholarship has rehabilitated her as a pioneering female leader, as celebrated by the BBC.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wu Zetian

Why Is Wu Zetian Famous?

Only woman to rule China as emperor in her own name (690–705 CE).

Was Wu Zetian the First Empress of China?

No — she was the first (and only) female emperor, not just consort.

Where Was Wu Zetian Born?

Wenshui or Lizhou, 624 CE.

How Did Wu Zetian Rise to Power?

From concubine of Taizong to favourite of Gaozong, eliminated rivals, ruled as regent, then emperor.

What Did Wu Zetian Change in China?

Promoted meritocracy, Buddhism, and expanded the empire.

Was Wu Zetian Cruel?

She used secret police and executed rivals, but many atrocity stories are later propaganda.

How Did Wu Zetian Die?

Natural causes on December 16, 705, aged 81.