 Wu Zetian, the first woman emperor. Wu Zetian, born in 624 AD, is a significant figure in Chinese history for being the only woman to rule as emperor. Her rise to power was extraordinary and her reign marked a unique period in the Chinese imperial history. Wu Zetian was born into a noble family. Her father was a wealthy and influential man which allowed her to receive a good education, a rarity for women at that time. She entered the imperial court as a concubine to Emperor Taizong at a young age. After his death, she became a nun, a common practice for widowed concubines. Wu Zetian returned to court as a concubine of Emperor Taizong's son and successor, Emperor Gao Zong. She quickly became his favorite and gained significant influence. She was known for her political savvy and ability to navigate court intrigues. She eliminated rivals and positioned her allies in key positions. Initially, Wu Zetian became Empress Consort, gaining more power and influence. She was deeply involved in state affairs and effectively ruled alongside Emperor Gao Zong. After Gao Zong's death, she served as regent for her young sons, maintaining control over the empire. In 690, Wu Zetian took the unprecedented step of declaring herself emperor, founding the Zhou Dynasty. This was a significant break from tradition as women were not traditionally allowed to rule in their own right. Wu Zetian reformed the government, promoting officials based on merit rather than noble birth. This led to a more efficient and capable administration. She was a patron of Buddhism, which flourished under her rule, although she also supported Taoism and Confucianism. Her reign saw advancements in literature, poetry, and the arts. She encouraged education and intellectual discourse. Wu Zetian's legacy is complex. She's admired for her strong leadership and reforms, but also criticized for her ruthless methods in securing and maintaining power. Her reign is notable for its break from patriarchal norms and her ability to maintain a stable and prosperous empire. Wu Zetian abdicated in 705, reinstating the Tang Dynasty. She died shortly after, but her reign left a lasting impact on Chinese imperial history. Wu Zetian's story is remarkable, not only because she was a woman who rose to the highest position of power in a deeply patriarchal society, but also because of the effective governance and cultural advancements during her rule. Her life has been the subject of numerous historical and fictional accounts, reflecting the enduring fascination with her extraordinary journey.