Emperor Ruizong of Tang

Emperor Ruizong of Tang, born Li Dan on June 22, 662, was a pivotal yet often overshadowed figure in the history of the Tang dynasty. As the fifth and ninth emperor, he was the eighth son of Emperor Gaozong and the fourth son of Empress Wu. His reign was marked by significant control from his mother, Empress Wu, who effectively ruled as a quasi-emperor during his first term from 684 to 690.

In February 684, Empress Wu demoted her son, Emperor Zhongzong, and placed Li Dan on the throne as Emperor Ruizong. However, he was little more than a figurehead, unable to exercise any real power or even move freely within his residence. The Tang dynasty, during this period, was essentially a facade, with Empress Wu wielding absolute authority until she declared herself empress regnant in 690, thus founding the Zhou dynasty.

After Empress Wu's death, Ruizong's second reign began, but he remained under the influence of his sister, Princess Taiping. In 705, a coup restored Emperor Zhongzong to the throne, but following his death in 710, Ruizong was persuaded to reclaim the throne. His return was short-lived, as tensions arose between him, Princess Taiping, and his son, Li Longji, who was made crown prince.

In September 712, believing in a change of emperors, Ruizong abdicated in favor of Li Longji, who became Emperor Xuanzong. Despite his abdication, Ruizong retained significant influence, allowing Princess Taiping to continue her involvement in governance. However, in 713, fearing a coup from her, Emperor Xuanzong acted decisively, leading to her demise. Ultimately, Ruizong relinquished his remaining powers and faded from the political scene, passing away in 716.