Empress Dowager Xiaojing was truly one of the most pitiful empresses of the Ming dynasty. She was originally a palace maid who happened to catch the eye of Emperor Shenzong of the Ming Dynasty (also known as the Wanli Emperor). Because of her lowly status, she quickly became Emperor Shenzong’s greatest shame and embarrassment.[1] He would [read more]
Grand Empress Dowager Xiaoning is known as one of the most controversial figures in China. Many historians have accused Grand Empress Dowager Xiaoning of causing the Ming dynasty’s downfall.[1] Did Grand Empress Dowager Xiaoning deserve the blame? She has been accused of seducing Emperor Shenzong of Ming and trying to interrupt the rightful succession by [read more]
Princess Fukang’s death is one of China’s most tragic and unresolved mysteries. While Princess Fukang officially died of unknown causes, Emperor Shenzong accused Princess Fukang’s husband named Li Wei of abusing her to death. While we may never know if Princess Fukang died at the hands of her husband, we do know that she suffered [read more]
In my previous article, I chronicled Empress Dowager Liu E’s humble origins as an orphan who entertained people on the streets and rose to become the regent of Northern Song China. Empress Liu E was said to be one of the greatest empresses of China, but she was not evil.[1] She was known to be fair, [read more]
Empress Dowager Liu E of Northern Song is known as one of China’s three greatest empresses.[1] She played an important role in the history of the Song Dynasty. She was the first regent of the Northern Song Dynasty and created a new model of female regency that her successors would follow.[2] Empress Dowager Liu E was [read more]
Empress Xiao Chuo’s story proves that there is an extraordinary woman behind a great man. Empress Xiao Chuo’s son, Emperor Shengzong, was one of the Liao Dynasty’s greatest rulers. However, it was his mother who paved the way to his greatness. Empress Xiao Chuo would make many reforms that greatly benefitted her country and her [read more]
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