Wu Zetian

Wu Zhao (17 February 624 - 16 December 705), also known as Wu Zetian, Wu Hou, and Tian Hou during the later Tang dynasty, was the "de facto" ruler of China from 665 to 705. From 665 to 690, she ruled as empress consort of the Tang dynasty, through her husband Emperor Gaozong, and then as empress dowager, through her sons Emperors Zhongzong and Ruizong. She then ruled as empress regnant of China's Wu Zhou dynasty from 690 to 705, a first in Chinese history. She was the only legitimate female sovereign in Chinese history. During her 40-year reign, China expanded to become one of the world's great powers, its culture and economy were revitalized, and corruption in the court was reduced.

Empress Wu is regarded as one of the greatest emperors in Chinese history due to her strong leadership and effective governance, which helped China become one of the world's most powerful nations. The historical significance of Wu Zetian's political and military leadership includes the Chinese empire's major expansion, extending it far beyond its previous territorial limits, deep into Central Asia, and engaging in a series of wars on the Korean Peninsula, first allying with Silla against Goguryeo, and then opposing Silla over the occupation of former Goguryeo territory. Aside from the more obvious consequences of her struggle to gain and maintain supremacy, Wu's leadership had a significant impact on Chinese social class and state support for Taoism, Buddhism, education, and literature. She established spies to establish a strong intelligence system in the court and throughout the empire, delivering daily reports on the empire's current affairs or opposition to the central state. She was also instrumental in reforming the imperial examination system and encouraging capable officials to work in governance in order to keep the state peaceful and well-governed. Wu Zetian was also responsible for the Longmen Grottoes' statuary and the "Wordless Stele" at the Qianling Mausoleum, as well as the construction of some major buildings and bronze castings that no longer exist.

Wu Zetian had a busy family life in addition to her political career. Wu was the mother of four sons, three of whom held the title of emperor, though one only as a posthumous honor. One of her grandchildren became Tang Emperor Xuanzong.