Emperor Zhongzong, her son, succeeded Wu Zetian after her removal from power.
The End of Wu Zetian's Reign and the Succession
Wu Zetian's extraordinary reign as the only female emperor of China concluded in 705 CE. She was removed from office shortly before her death in the same year, at the age of 81. Following her removal, her son, Emperor Zhongzong, was restored to the imperial throne, thus ensuring the continuity of the Tang Dynasty.
Key Figures in the Imperial Transition
The transition of power was a pivotal moment in Chinese history, marking the end of the Zhou Dynasty established by Wu Zetian and the restoration of the Tang. The primary individuals involved in this succession were:
| Position | Individual |
|---|---|
| Ruler before the transition | Wu Zetian |
| Successor | Emperor Zhongzong |
Emperor Zhongzong: The Restored Emperor
Emperor Zhongzong's ascent to power in 705 CE was, in fact, his second time on the throne. He had previously been briefly installed as emperor by his mother in 683 CE but was quickly deposed by her due to his independent actions. His restoration in 705 CE was the direct outcome of a coup orchestrated by high-ranking officials and princes, which led to Wu Zetian's abdication.
Key aspects of Emperor Zhongzong's second reign and the immediate aftermath of Wu Zetian's rule include:
- Restoration of the Tang Dynasty: Zhongzong's return marked the official end of Wu Zetian's Zhou Dynasty, re-establishing the Tang Imperial House.
- Political Instability: Despite the succession, the court remained politically volatile, influenced by powerful empresses and consorts, leading to further power struggles.
The succession of Emperor Zhongzong brought an end to an unprecedented era in Chinese history, characterized by the remarkable reign of a woman who wielded absolute power.
