The Rise of Emperor Gaozong and the Early Tang Dynasty

Emperor Gaozong of Tang, born Li Zhi, ascended to the throne in 649 AD following the death of his father, the illustrious Emperor Taizong. Initially, Gaozong’s reign appeared stable, continuing the prosperous governance of the preceding Zhenguan era. However, his rule would soon be marked by political intrigue, frequent changes in era names, and the unprecedented rise of his consort, Wu Zetian.

Gaozong’s early years were dominated by the influence of his father’s advisors, particularly the powerful chancellor Zhangsun Wuji. Yet, as Gaozong grew more assertive, he sought to consolidate power by sidelining these elder statesmen. His marriage to Wu Zetian, originally a concubine of his father, would prove to be a turning point in Tang history.

The Era of Constant Change: A Record-Breaking Half-Century

Between 660 and 712 AD, the Tang court witnessed an astonishing 37 era name changes—more than the Ming and Qing dynasties combined. This period, spanning the reigns of Gaozong, Wu Zetian, and their sons Zhongzong and Ruizong, was characterized by political instability, imperial whims, and symbolic gestures of renewal.

Gaozong alone used 14 era names during his reign, each reflecting a mix of political maneuvering, celestial omens, and personal milestones:

– Yonghui (650-656): Symbolizing continuity with Taizong’s legacy.
– Xianqing (656-661): Marked the ascension of his son Li Hong as crown prince.
– Longshuo (661-663): Inspired by alleged dragon sightings—likely Wu Zetian’s early political theatrics.
– Lindie (664-665): A response to supposed qilin (unicorn) appearances.
– Qianfeng (666-668): Celebrated Gaozong’s grand Fengshan sacrifices at Mount Tai.

Wu Zetian, upon seizing the throne in 690, surpassed even Gaozong’s record, changing era names 14 times in just 15 years. Some years saw multiple changes, such as 701 AD, which was recorded under three different era names: Jiushi, Dazu, and Chang’an.

The Power Struggle: Gaozong, Wu Zetian, and the Court

Gaozong’s declining health—he suffered from debilitating “wind illness” (likely hypertension or stroke)—allowed Wu Zetian to gradually assume control of state affairs. By 664, tensions erupted when Gaozong, suspecting Wu of using black magic against him, conspired with chancellor Shangguan Yi to depose her. The plot failed spectacularly. Wu Zetian, ever vigilant, intercepted the plan and retaliated by executing Shangguan Yi and his family, including his granddaughter, the future poet Shangguan Wan’er.

This incident cemented Wu Zetian’s dominance. As Gaozong’s health worsened, she became the de facto ruler, even altering the calendar to begin the year in November (Zi Month) to suit her political agenda.

Cultural and Political Manipulation

Wu Zetian’s reign was marked by bold symbolism. She renamed government offices, promoted Buddhist ideology to legitimize her rule, and ruthlessly eliminated rivals—including her own relatives. When her nephew’s daughter, Lady Wei, caught Gaozong’s eye, Wu allegedly poisoned her during a banquet, framing her uncles for the crime.

Gaozong, despite his frustrations, relied on Wu Zetian’s political acumen. Her willingness to suppress potential threats—even within her own family—made her an indispensable ally. Meanwhile, Gaozong’s attempts to bolster his sons’ authority, such as appointing Li Hong as regent, were undermined by Wu’s machinations.

Legacy: The Fallout of an Unstable Reign

The frequent era changes reflected deeper instability. Economic mismanagement, such as the disastrous Qianfeng coinage reform (which caused hyperinflation), and natural disasters in 668-669 signaled decline. The death of general Li Ji (Li Shiji), one of the last Tang stalwarts, further weakened the dynasty.

Wu Zetian’s eventual usurpation in 690 shattered Tang traditions, yet her administrative reforms laid groundwork for the later Kaiyuan Golden Age under Emperor Xuanzong. The half-century of Gaozong and Wu Zetian’s rule remains a fascinating study of power, propaganda, and the lengths to which rulers would go to assert control.

### Conclusion: A Dynasty Transformed

The Tang Dynasty’s mid-period was defined by Gaozong’s infirmity and Wu Zetian’s ambition. Their legacy—excessive era changes, political purges, and economic experiments—reveals a court in flux. Yet, it also set the stage for the Tang’s eventual resurgence, proving that even the most turbulent reigns could yield lasting influence.