List of Chinese monarchs
The Chinese monarchs were the rulers of China during Ancient and Imperial periods.Template:Efn The earliest rulers in traditional Chinese historiography are of mythological origin, and followed by the Xia dynasty of highly uncertain and contested historicity. During the subsequent Shang (Template:Circa) and Zhou (1046–256 BCE) dynasties, rulers were referred to as Wang Template:Lang, meaning king.Template:Sfn China was fully united for the first time by Qin Shi Huang (Template:Reign259–210 BCE), who established the first Imperial dynasty, adopting the title Huangdi (Template:Lang), meaning Emperor, which remained in use until the Imperial system's fall in 1912.Template:Sfn
At no point during Ancient or Imperial China was there a formalized means to confer legitimate succession between rulers.Template:Sfn From the Zhou dynasty onwards, monarchs justified their reigns by claiming the Mandate of Heaven (Template:Lang; Tiānmìng).Template:SfnTemplate:Efn The mandate held that a ruler and their successors had permission from the heavens to rule as long as they did so effectively.Template:Sfn It also declared a ruler the Son of Heaven (Template:Lang; Tiānzǐ), giving them the right to rule "all under heaven" (Template:Lang; Tiānxià).Template:Sfn Given the Mandate's subjective nature, rulers also utilized a variety of methods to retain support and justify their accession.Template:Sfn This ranged from military enforcement, political patronage, establishing peace and solidity, institutional reform, and historical revisionism to legitimize the dissolution of previous dynasties and their own succession.Template:Sfn For most of Imperial China, the wuxing (Template:Lang; "Five Elements") philosophical scheme was also central to justify dynastic succession.Template:Sfn
Most Chinese monarchs had many names. They were given a personal name (Template:Lang; Míngzi) at birth, but later referred to by a posthumous name (Template:Lang; Shìhào)—which memorialized their accomplishments or character—due to a cultural naming taboo.Template:Sfn Most emperors of the Imperial period also received a temple name (Template:Lang; Miàohào), used to venerate them in ancestor worship.Template:Sfn From the rule of Emperor Wu of Han (Template:Reign141–87 BCE) onwards,Template:Efn emperors also adopted one or several era names (Template:Lang; Niánhào), or "reign mottos",Template:Sfn to divide their rule by important events or accomplishments.Template:Sfn Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) rulers are referred to solely by their era names, of which they only had one.Template:Sfn
Apart from ethnic Han rulers, China was also ruled by various non-Han monarchs, including Jurchen, Khitan, Manchu, Mongol and Tangut and many others.Template:Sfn To justify their reign, non-Han rulers sometimes aligned themselves with the Confucian sages or the Chakravarti of Chinese Buddhism.Template:Sfn There are numerous lengthy periods where many competing kingdoms claimed the throne, many of whose legitimacy is still debated by scholars.Template:Sfn
Ancient China
[edit]Mythological rulers
[edit]In traditional Chinese historiography, various models of mythological founding rulers exist.Template:Sfn The relevancy of these figures to the earliest Chinese people is unknown, since most accounts of them were written from the Warring States period (Template:Circa BCE) onwards.Template:Sfnm The sinologist Kwang-chih Chang has generalized the typical stages: "the first period was populated by gods, the second by demigods/culture hero, and the third by the legendary kings."Template:Sfn The primordial god Pangu is given by many texts as the earliest figure and is credited with forming the world by separating heaven and earth.Template:Sfnm Other gods include Nüwa, who repaired heaven; Hou Yi, a mythical archer; and Gonggong, a serpent-like water deity.Template:Sfn
Demigod and hero rulers from hero myths—the largest group Chinese myths—are attributed the invention of specific items, practices or traditions.Template:Sfn Among the more important of them are Fuxi, the inventor of hunting; Suiren, who invented fire; and Shennong, who invented both agriculture and medicine.Template:Sfn The subsequent legendary kings began with the Yellow Emperor (Template:Lang), known as Huangdi, a major culture hero of Chinese civilization whose reign was considered exemplary.Template:Sfn Succeeding rulers include some combination of Shaohao, Zhuanxu, Emperor Ku, Emperor Yao and Emperor Shun.Template:Sfn Since the late Warring States onwards, early Chinese monarchs have traditionally been ground into the concept of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors;Template:Sfn however, the chosen figures of this grouping varies considerably between sources.Template:Sfn Generally, most accounts include at least Fuxi and Shennong among the Three Sovereigns as well as the Yellow Emperor, Yao and Shun among the Five Emperors.Template:Sfn
Xia dynasty
[edit]Template:Further The Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors period was followed by the Xia dynasty in traditional historiography.Template:Sfn Founded by Yu the Great, both the dynasty and its rulers are of highly uncertain and controversial historicity.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn
Name | Speculative reign lengthTemplate:Efn | Traditional succession | CapitalTemplate:Sfn | Purported life details | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Template:Abbr | Template:AbbrTemplate:Sfn | ||||
Yu Template:Lang |
45 | 7 | Chosen by the mythical Emperor Shun | Ji | Awarded the throne after his institution of flood control. He is often known as "Yu the Great" and his passing of the throne to his son marked the beginning of China's hereditary successionTemplate:Sfnm |
Qi Template:Lang |
10 | 8 | Son of Yu | Xiayi | Prevented a rebellion led by his son WuguanTemplate:Sfnm |
(Tai) Kang Template:Lang |
29 | 28 | Son of Qi | Zhenxun | Traditionally considered an ineffective king, either due to tyranny or incompetence. May have been briefly dethroned by the mythical hero Han Zhuo and later murdered by Han's son AoTemplate:Sfnm |
(Zhong) Kang (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
13 | 13 | Son of Qi | Zhenxun | May not have ruled as his existence is sometimes absent from Xia king listsTemplate:Sfnm |
Xiang Template:Lang |
28 | 28 | Son of (Zhong) Kang | Shang, then Zhenxun | Killed by a son of Han ZhuoTemplate:Sfnm |
Interregnum, ruled by Han Zhuo | |||||
(Shao) Kang Template:Lang |
21 | 21 | Son of Xiang | Yuan | Restored the dynasty after killing Han Zhuo and his sonsTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhu Template:Lang |
17 | 16 | Son of (Shao) Kang | Yuan, then Laoqiu | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfnm |
Huai Template:Lang |
26 | 25 | Son of Zhu | – | Little is known of his reign; may have ruled up to 40 yearsTemplate:Sfn |
Mang Template:Lang |
18 | 17 | Son of Huai | – | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfn |
Xie Template:Lang |
16 | 15 | Son of Mang | – | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfnm |
(Bu) Jiang Template:Lang |
59 | 58 | Son of Xie | – | Little is known of his reign; campaigned against the northwestern Template:Ill peoplesTemplate:Sfn |
Jiong Template:Lang |
21 | 20 | Son of Xie | – | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfn |
Jin Template:Lang |
21 | 20 | Son of Jiong | Xihe | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfn |
Kong Jia Template:Lang |
31 | 30 | Son of (Bu) Jiang | Xihe | His reign inaugurated the Xia's gradual declineTemplate:Sfn |
Gao Template:Lang |
11 | 10 | Son of Kong Jia | – | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfn |
Fa Template:Lang |
11 | 20? | Son of Gao | – | May have only reigned 7 years. His reign saw the earliest recorded earthquake, identified with the Mount Tai earthquake.Template:Sfn |
Jie Template:Lang |
52 | 52 | Son of Fa | Zhenxun, then Henan | Traditionally considered a cruel and oppressive ruler. Fled the empire after losing the Battle of Mingtiao to the state of ShangTemplate:Sfnm |
Shang dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BCE)
[edit]Template:Further Unlike the Xia, the Shang dynasty's historicity is firmly established, due to written records on divination objects known as Oracle bones. The oldest such oracle bones date to the Late Shang (Template:Circa), during the reign of Wu Ding (1250–1192), putting the exact details of earlier rulers into doubt.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn
Posthumous nameTemplate:Sfn | Personal nameTemplate:Sfn | Tentative reign (BCE)Template:Efn | Traditional successionTemplate:SfnTemplate:Sfn | ResidenceTemplate:Sfn | Purported life details | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
XSZ ProjectTemplate:SfnTemplate:Sfn | Template:AbbrTemplate:Sfn | |||||||
Early Shang[edit] | ||||||||
Tang Template:Lang Da Yi Template:Lang |
Zi Lü Template:Lang |
Template:Floruit | Template:FloruitTemplate:Sfn | Defeated the purportedly tyrannous Jie of Xia at the Battle of Mingtiao and established the Shang dynasty | Bo, then Shangyi | Traditionally considered a noble and virtuous rulerTemplate:Sfn | ||
Da Ding (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang Tai Ding (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
unknown | – | – | Son of Tang | – | Uncertain whether he was ever enthroned; may have died before succeeding his fatherTemplate:SfnTemplate:Sfn | ||
Wai Bing Template:Lang |
Zi Sheng Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tang | Bo | —Template:Sfn | ||
Zhong Ren (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Zi Yong Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tang | Bo | Not listed in the oracle bones inscriptionsTemplate:Sfn | ||
Tai Jia Template:Lang |
Zi Zhi Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Da Ding | Bo | Traditionally considered an autocratic and cruel rulerTemplate:Sfn | ||
Wo Ding (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang Qiang Ding Template:Lang |
Zi Xuan Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Jia | Bo | His name is not found in oracle bone inscriptions, making his certainty as a ruler less secure.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn | ||
Tai Geng Template:Lang Da Geng Template:Lang |
Zi Bian Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Jia | Bo | –Template:Sfn | ||
Xiao Jia Template:Lang |
Zi Gao Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Geng | Bo | –Template:Sfn | ||
Yong Ji Template:Lang |
Zi Zhou Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Geng | Bo | May have reigned after Tai WuTemplate:Sfn | ||
Tai Wu Template:Lang Da Wu Template:Lang |
Zi Mi Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Geng | Bo | Said to have had a particularly long reign; one source records 75 years. The astronomer Wuxian was active under himTemplate:Sfn | ||
Zhong Ding Template:Lang |
Zi Zhung Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Wu | Ao | May have succeeded Yong JiTemplate:Sfn | ||
Wai Ren Template:Lang |
Zi Fā Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Wu | Ao | –Template:Sfn | ||
He Dan Jia Template:Lang |
Zi Zheng Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Tai Wu | Xiang | Moved the capital to Xiang (Template:Lang) and engaged in military campaignsTemplate:Sfn | ||
Zu Yi Template:Lang |
Zi Teng Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Zhong Ding | Geng | The dynasty flourished particularly during his reignTemplate:Sfn | ||
Zu Xin Template:Lang |
Zi Dan Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Zu Yi | Bi | –Template:Sfn | ||
Wo Jia Template:Lang Qiang Jia Template:Lang |
Zi Yu Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Zu Yi | Bi | –Template:Sfn | ||
Zu Ding Template:Lang |
Zi Xin Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Zu Xin | Bi | –Template:Sfn | ||
Nan Geng Template:Lang |
Zi Geng Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Wo Jia | Bi, then Yan | Moved the capital from Bi (Template:Lang) to Yan (Template:Lang)Template:Sfn | ||
Yang Jia Template:Lang |
Zi He Template:Lang |
— | — | Son of Zu Ding | Yan | His reign marked the decline of the ShangTemplate:Sfn | ||
Pan Geng Template:Lang |
Zi Xun Template:Lang |
1300–1251 (Template:Age in years years) |
— | Son of Zu Ding | Yan, then Yin | Traditionally said to have moved the dynasty's capital from Yan (Template:Lang) to Yin (Template:Lang)Template:Sfn Led a prosperous reignTemplate:Sfn | ||
Xiao Xin Template:Lang |
Zi Song Template:Lang |
— | Son of Zu Ding | Yin | His reign saw the continuation of the Shang's declineTemplate:Sfn | |||
Xiao Yi Template:Lang |
Zi Lian Template:Lang |
— | Son of Zu Ding | Yin | –Template:Sfn | |||
Late Shang[edit] | ||||||||
Wu Ding Template:Lang |
Zi Zhao Template:Lang |
1250–1192 (Template:Age in years years) |
?–1189 | Son of Xiao Yi | Yin | A powerful king with a lengthy reign. Made his wife Fu Hao the a military general and is purportedly defeated the mostly-unknown Guifang people.Template:Sfn The first ruler whose name is included in oracle bones which date to his reign.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn | ||
Zu Geng Template:Lang |
Zi Yue Template:Lang |
1191–1148 (Template:Age in years years) |
1188–1178 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wu Ding | Yin | Possibly commissioned the Houmuwu ding in memory of his mother Fu JingTemplate:SfnpTemplate:SfnTemplate:Efn | ||
Zu Jia Template:Lang |
Zi Zai Template:Lang |
1177–1158 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wu Ding | Yin | Reformed the ritual and calendar systems, as recording in the Book of DocumentsTemplate:Sfn | |||
Lin Xin (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Zi Xian Template:Lang |
1157–1149 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Zu Jia | Yin | Due to inconsistencies in the oracle bone inscriptions, it is possible he did not reign.Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn | |||
Geng Ding Template:Lang Kang Ding Template:Lang |
Zi Xiao Template:Lang |
1148–1132 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Zu Jia | Yin | His reign accelerated the dynasty's declineTemplate:Sfn | |||
Wu Yi Template:Lang |
Zi Qu Template:Lang |
1147–1131 (Template:Age in years years) |
1131–1117 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Geng Ding | Yin, Hebei, then Mo | Engaged in numerous military campaigns, including against the state of Yiqu. Traditionally held to have been killed by a lightning strike, considered a bad omenTemplate:Sfn | ||
Wen Wu Ding Template:Lang Wen Ding Template:Lang |
Zi Tuo Template:Lang |
1112–1102 (Template:Age in years years) |
1116–1106 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wu Yi | Yin | The Predynastic Zhou rose in power during his reign, led by Ji, King of ZhouTemplate:Sfn | ||
Di Yi Template:Lang |
Zi Xian Template:Lang |
1101–1076 (Template:Age in years years) |
1105–1087 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wen Wu Ding | Yin | Supposedly married his daughter to King Wen of Zhou,Template:SfnTemplate:Sfn or married his sister to Ji, King of ZhouTemplate:Sfn | ||
Di Xin Template:Lang |
Zi Shou Template:Lang |
1075–1046 (Template:Age in years years) |
1086–1045 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Di Yi | Yin | Killed by Ji Fa during the Battle of MuyeTemplate:SfnTemplate:Sfn |
Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BCE)
[edit]Posthumous nameTemplate:Sfn | Personal name | Tentative reign (BCE) | Traditional successionTemplate:Sfn | Purported life details | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
XSZ ProjectTemplate:SfnTemplate:Sfn | Template:AbbrTemplate:Sfn | |||||
Western Zhou[edit] | ||||||
Wu Template:Lang |
Ji Fa Template:Lang |
1046–1043 (Template:Age in years years) |
1049–1043 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of King Wen | Defeated the tyrannical King Zhou of Shang in the Battle of MuyeTemplate:Sfn | |
Cheng Template:Lang |
Ji Song Template:Lang |
1042–1021 (Template:Age in years years) |
1042–1006 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wu | Most of his reign was controlled by the Duke of Zhou, who suppressed the Rebellion of the Three GuardsTemplate:Sfn | |
Kang Template:Lang |
Ji Zhao Template:Lang |
1020–996 (Template:Age in years years) |
1005–978 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Cheng | His accession established Zhou primogeniture. A largely peaceful reignTemplate:Sfn | |
Zhao Template:Lang |
Ji Xia Template:Lang |
995–977 (Template:Age in years years) |
977–957 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Kang | Lost the Zhou–Chu War, during which he died. His reign marked the Zhou's gradual declineTemplate:Sfn | |
Mu Template:Lang |
Ji Man Template:Lang |
976–922 (Template:Age in years years) |
956–918 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Zhao | Engaged in many destabilizing territory conflictsTemplate:Sfn | |
Gong Template:Lang |
Ji Yihu Template:Lang |
922–900 (Template:Age in years years) |
917–900 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Mu | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfn | |
Yih Template:Lang |
Ji Jian Template:Lang |
899–892 (Template:Age in years years) |
899–873 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Gong | Little is known of his reign; may have been removed from power by XiaoTemplate:Sfn | |
Xiao Template:Lang |
Ji Pifang Template:Lang |
891–886 (Template:Age in years years) |
872–866 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Mu | Little is known of his reignTemplate:Sfn | |
Yí Template:Lang |
Ji Xie Template:Lang |
885–878 (Template:Age in years years) |
865–858 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Yih | Continued decline of the ZhouTemplate:Sfn | |
Li Template:Lang |
Ji Hu Template:Lang |
877–841 (Template:Age in years years) |
857–842 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Yí | Traditionally considered a corrupt and cruel ruler. Exiled amid a peasant rebellionTemplate:Sfn | |
Gonghe Regency (共和; 841–828)Template:Sfn | ||||||
Xuan Template:Lang |
Ji Jing Template:Lang |
827–782 | Son of Li | Had military successes, aiming to restore Zhou authorityTemplate:Sfn | ||
You Template:Lang |
Ji Gongnie Template:Lang |
781–771 (Template:Age in years years) |
782–771 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Xuan | Numerous natural disasters occurred, after which Quanrong him and overran the capitalTemplate:Sfn | |
Eastern Zhou[edit] | ||||||
Spring and Autumn period (春秋時代; 770–476 BCE) | ||||||
Ping Template:Lang |
Ji Yijiu Template:Lang |
770–720 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of You | Moved the capital to LuoyangTemplate:Sfn | ||
Huan Template:Lang |
Ji Lin Template:Lang |
719–697 (Template:Age in years years) |
Grandson of Ping | Defeated by the Duke of Zheng at the Battle of Xuge, accelerating the Zhou dynasty's decline in powerTemplate:Sfn | ||
Zhuang Template:Lang |
Ji Tuo Template:Lang |
696–682 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Huan | Royal court's authority began decliningTemplate:Sfn | ||
Xi Template:Lang |
Ji Huqi Template:Lang |
681–677 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Zhuang | Briefly reigned as the Duke Huan led the Qi to surpass the Zhou in powerTemplate:Sfn | ||
Hui Template:Lang |
Ji Lang Template:Lang |
676–652 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Xi | Slowed the Chu state's riseTemplate:Sfn | ||
Xiang Template:Lang |
Ji Zheng Template:Lang |
651–619 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Hui | Briefly deposed by his brother, but reinstated by Duke WenTemplate:Sfn | ||
Qing Template:Lang |
Ji Renchen Template:Lang |
618–613 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Xiang | Briefly reignedTemplate:Sfn | ||
Kuang Template:Lang |
Ji Ban Template:Lang |
612–607 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Qing | Increasing fighting between surrounding kingdomsTemplate:Sfn | ||
Ding Template:Lang |
Ji Yu Template:Lang |
606–586 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Qing | Continued fighting of surrounding kingdomsTemplate:Sfn | ||
Jian Template:Lang |
Ji Yi Template:Lang |
585–572 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Ding | Continued fighting of surrounding kingdomsTemplate:Sfn | ||
Ling Template:Lang |
Ji Xiexin Template:Lang |
571–545 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Jian | Weakened relations with surrounding kingdomsTemplate:Sfn | ||
Jing Template:Lang |
Ji Gui Template:Lang |
544–521 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Ling | Died without an heir, causing a power struggle and rebellionTemplate:Sfn | ||
Dao Template:Lang |
Ji Meng Template:Lang |
520 (less than a year) |
Son of Jing (544–521) | Briefly ruled before being murdered by his brotherTemplate:Sfn | ||
Jing Template:Lang |
Ji Gai Template:Lang |
519–476 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Jing (544–521) | Briefly exiled during a revolt. Ruled during the lifetime of ConfuciusTemplate:Sfn | ||
Warring States period (戰國時代; 475–221 BCE) | ||||||
Yuan Template:Lang |
Ji Ren Template:Lang |
475–469 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Jing (519–476) | Decline in Zhou's powerTemplate:Sfn | ||
Zhending Template:Lang |
Ji Jie Template:Lang |
468–442 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Yuan | Continued decline of ZhouTemplate:Sfn | ||
Ai Template:Lang |
Ji Quji Template:Lang |
441 (less than a year) |
Son of Zhending | Continued decline of Zhou. Killed by SiTemplate:Sfn | ||
Si Template:Lang |
Ji Shu Template:Lang |
441 (less than a year) |
Son of Zhending | Continued decline of Zhou. Killed by KaoTemplate:Sfn | ||
Kao Template:Lang |
Ji Wei Template:Lang |
440–426 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Zhending | –Template:Sfn | ||
Weilie Template:Lang |
Ji Wu Template:Lang |
425–402 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Kao | –Template:Sfn | ||
An Template:Lang |
Ji Jiao Template:Lang |
401–376 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Weilie | Wei increased in powerTemplate:Sfn | ||
Lie Template:Lang |
Ji Xi Template:Lang |
375–369 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of An | –Template:Sfn | ||
Xian Template:Lang |
Ji Bian Template:Lang |
368–321 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of An | Qin began to rise in powerTemplate:Sfn | ||
Shenjing Template:Lang |
Ji Ding Template:Lang |
320–315 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Xian | Qin's power grew significantly during his reignTemplate:Sfn | ||
Nan Template:Lang |
Ji Yan Template:Lang |
314–256 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Shenjing | Longest reigning Zhou ruler, though held little power amid the divided kingdom. Conquered and deposed by King Zhaoxiang of QinTemplate:Sfn |
Early imperial China
[edit]Qin dynasty (221–207 BCE)
[edit]Dynastic name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Qin Shi HuangTemplate:Efn Template:Lang |
Ying Zheng Template:Lang Zhao Zheng Template:Lang |
221Template:Efn – July 210 BCETemplate:Efn (11 years) |
Son of King Zhuangxiang of Qin. As King Zheng of Qin, he conquered the six other states during the Warring States period and proclaimed himself Emperor (皇帝; Huangdi).Template:Sfn | 259 – July 210 BCE (Template:Age in years years) Instilled a Legalist philosophy, combined preexisting walls into the Great Wall of China, and built the Lingqu canal and the Terracotta Army. Died of sudden illness,Template:Sfn possibly alchemical elixir poisoningTemplate:Sfn |
Qin Er ShiTemplate:Efn Template:Lang |
Ying Huhai Template:Lang |
210Template:Efn – October 207 BCE (3 years) |
Second son of Qin Shi Huang. Put on the throne by Li Si and Zhao Gao, who forced the appointed heir Fusu to commit suicide.Template:Sfn | 231/222 – October 207 BCE (Template:Age in years/Template:Age in years years) His reign was completely dominated by Zhao Gao. Forced by Zhao to commit suicideTemplate:Sfn |
As the Qin dynasty greatly weakened in power, the Chu–Han Contention began in 206 BCE and ended with Liu Bang inaugurating the Han dynasty in 202 BCETemplate:Efn |
Han and Xin dynasties (202 BCE – 220 CE)
[edit]Template:Main list Template:Further
Posthumous name | Personal name | ReignTemplate:Sfnm | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Western Han (202 BCE – 9 CE)[edit] | ||||
Gaozu Template:Lang Gao Template:Lang |
Liu Bang Template:Lang |
28 February 202Template:Efn– 1 June 195 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) |
Unified China and proclaimed himself Emperor after victory in the Chu–Han Contention | 256 – 1 June 195 BCE (aged 61) Among the most revered Chinese emperors. Died from an arrow injury in a campaign against Ying BuTemplate:Sfnm |
Hui Template:Lang |
Liu Ying Template:Lang |
23 June 195 – 26 September 188 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) |
Son of Gao | 210 – 26 September 188 BCE (aged 22) His reign was largely dominated by his mother Empress Lü. Died from an unknown illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
QianshaoTemplate:Efn (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Liu Gong Template:Lang |
19 October 188 – 15 June 184 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) |
Purportedly a son of HuiTemplate:Efn | ? – after 184 BCE
An infant emperor whose reign was completely dominated by Empress Lü. Deposed and put under house arrest; unknown date of death after 184Template:Sfnm |
HoushaoTemplate:Efn (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Liu Yi Template:Lang Liu Hong Template:Lang |
15 June 184 – 15 August 180 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) |
Purportedly a son of HuiTemplate:Efn | ? – 14 November 180
An infant emperor whose reign was completely dominated by Empress Lü. Put to death by the House of LüTemplate:Sfnm |
Wen Template:Lang |
Liu Heng Template:Lang |
14 November 180 – 6 July 157 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Gao | 203/202 – 6 July 157 BCE (aged 46) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Jing Template:Lang |
Liu Qi Template:Lang |
14 July 157 – 10 March 141 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Wen | 188 – 10 March 141 BCE (aged 47) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Wu Template:Lang |
Liu Che Template:Lang |
10 March 141 – 29 March 87 BCETemplate:Efn (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Jing | 157/156 – 29 March 87 BCETemplate:Efn (aged 69) Among the longest reigning and highly regarded Chinese emperors. Expanded the Han dynasty considerably. Died from an unknown illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhao Template:Lang |
Liu Fuling Template:Lang |
30 March 87 – 5 June 74 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Wu | 94 – 5 June 74 BCE (aged 20) Died from natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
None, known as Marquis of Haihun (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Liu He Template:Lang |
18 July – 14 August 74 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) |
Grandson of Wu | 92–59 BCE (aged 32–33) Briefly installed by Huo Guang and not often considered legitimate. Died from natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Xuan Template:Lang |
Liu Bingyi Template:Lang Liu Xun Template:Lang |
10 September 74 – 10 January 48 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Great-grandson Wu | 91 – 10 January 48 BCE (aged 43) His reign is sometimes considered a cultural and political 'renaissance'. Died from natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Yuan Template:Lang |
Liu Shi Template:Lang |
29 January 48 – 3 July 33 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xuan | 75 – 8 July 33 BCE (aged 42) Died from an unknown illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
Cheng Template:Lang |
Liu Ao Template:Lang |
4 August 33 – 17 April 7 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yuan | 51 – 17 April 7 BCE (aged 44) Died from a stroke or possibly complications from an aphrodisiac overdoseTemplate:Sfnm |
Ai Template:Lang |
Liu Xin Template:Lang |
7 May 7 – 15 August 1 BCE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Yuan | 27 – 15 August 1 BCE (aged 26) Died from an unknown illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
Ping Template:Lang |
Liu Kan Template:Lang |
17 October 1 BCE – 3 February 6 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Yuan | 9 BCE – 3 February 6 CE (aged 14) His reign was dominated by Wang Zhengjun and Wang Mang. He was murdered, possibly by orders from the latter.Template:Sfnm |
None, known as Ruzi Ying (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Liu Ying Template:Lang |
17 April 6 – 10 January 9 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Cousin-once-removed of Ping | 5 – 25 CE (aged 20) A child puppet of Wang Mang; often not considered legitimate. He later attempted to succeed the Gengshi Emperor, but was killed by himTemplate:Sfnm |
Xin dynasty (9–23 CE)[edit] | ||||
— | Wang Mang Template:Lang |
10 January 9 – 6 October 23 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
After dominating the reign of Emperor Ping, Wang Mang overthrew him and established the short-lived Xin dynasty | 46 BCE – 6 October 23 CE (aged 68) Established the Xin dynasty, but his drastic reforms incited the Red Eyebrows and Lulin peasant rebellions which collapsed the dynasty.Template:Sfnm |
Gengshi Emperor (23–25 CE)[edit] | ||||
None, known by his era: Gengshi (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Liu Xuan Template:Lang |
11 March 23 – November 25 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Descendant of Jing | ? – November 25 CE
Strangled on the orders of Template:Ill, a leader of the Red Eyebrows. Sometimes considered a pretender and illegitimateTemplate:Sfn |
Eastern Han (25–220 CE)[edit] | ||||
Guangwu Template:Lang |
Liu Xiu Template:Lang |
5 August 25 – 29 March 57 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Descendant of Jing | 15 January 5 BCE – 29 March 57 CE (aged 62) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Ming Template:Lang |
Liu Yang Template:Lang Liu Zhuang Template:Lang |
29 March 57 – 5 September 75 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Guangwu | 28 – 5 September 75 CE (aged 48) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhang Template:Lang |
Liu Da Template:Lang |
5 September 75 – 9 April 88 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Ming | 56 – 9 April 88 CE (aged 32) His reign marked the beginning of the Han's decline. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
He Template:Lang |
Liu Zhao Template:Lang |
9 April 88 – 13 February 106 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhang | 79 – 13 February 106 (aged 27) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Shang Template:Lang |
Liu Long Template:Lang |
13 February – 21 September 106 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of He | 105 – 21 September 106 (aged 4) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
An Template:Lang |
Liu Hu Template:Lang Liu You Template:Lang |
23 September 106 – 30 April 125 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Zhang | 94 – 30 April 125 (aged 32) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
None, known as Marquess of Beixiang (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Liu Yi Template:Lang |
18 May – 10 December 125 CETemplate:Efn (Template:Age in years, months and days) |
Grandson of Emperor Zhang | ?–125 CE
Briefly reigned, probably as a child; often not considered legitimate. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfn |
Shun Template:Lang |
Liu Bao Template:Lang |
16 December 125 – 20 September 144 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of An | 115 – 20 September 144 CE (aged 29) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Chong Template:Lang |
Liu Bing Template:Lang |
20 September 144 – 15 February 145 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shun | 143 – 15 February 145 CE (aged 2) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhi Template:Lang |
Liu Zuan Template:Lang |
6 March 145 – 26 July 146 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Cousin of Chong and great-grandson of Emperor Zhang | 138 – 26 July 146 CE (aged 7–8) His reign was dominated by Liang Ji, who may have poisoned him. Otherwise he died from food poisoningTemplate:Sfnm |
Huan Template:Lang |
Liu Zhi Template:Lang |
1 August 146 – 25 January 168 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Great-grandson of Zhang | 132 – 25 January 168 CE (aged 36) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Ling Template:Lang |
Liu Hong Template:Lang |
17 February 168 – 13 May 189 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Great-great-grandson of Zhang | 156 – 13 May 189 CE (aged 32–33) Died of an unknown illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
Prince of Hongnong (Template:Hash-tag) Template:Lang |
Liu Bian Template:Lang |
15 May – 28 September 189 CE (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Ling | 173/176 – 22 March 190 CE (aged 13–14) Briefly reigned as a child; often not considered legitimate. Poisoned by Dong ZhuoTemplate:Sfn |
Xian Template:Lang |
Liu Xie Template:Lang |
28 September 189 – 11 December 220Template:Efn (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Ling | 2 April 181 – 21 April 234 (aged 53) A puppet of Dong Zhuo and later Cao Cao. Forced to abdicate by Cao Pi, but spared. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Cao Cao is defeated at the Battle of Red Cliffs by Sun Quan and Liu Bei, preventing him from uniting seceded southern Han territory. The region becomes split into three competing powers: Cao Wei, Eastern Wu, and Shu Han.Template:Sfnm |
Six Dynasties
[edit]Three Kingdoms (220–280)
[edit]Cao Wei (220–266)
[edit]Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cao Pi Template:Lang |
Emperor Wen Template:Lang |
11 December 220 – 29 June 226 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
The eldest surviving son of Cao Cao. Inherited what lands the Eastern Han dynasty still controlled to found the Cao Wei state | 187 – 29 June 226 (aged 38–39) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Cao Rui Template:Lang |
Emperor Ming Template:Lang |
29 June 226 – 22 January 239 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Cao Pi and grandson of Cao Cao | Template:Circa – 22 January 239 (aged 34–35) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Cao Fang Template:Lang |
Emperor Shao Template:Lang Emperor Fei Template:Lang |
22 January 239 – 16 October 254 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Adopted heir by Cao Rui, who had no sons of his own. He was presumably related to the imperial family in some way | 231–274 (aged 42–43) His reign was completely dominated by Cao Shuang, Sima Yi and Sima Shi, the latter of which eventually deposed Cao Fang. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Cao Mao Template:Lang |
Duke of Gaogui District Template:Lang |
2 November 254 – 2 June 260 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
The cousin of Cao Fang and grandson of Cao Pi. Put on the throne by Sima Shi | Template:Circa – 9 July 260 (aged 18–19) His reign was completely dominated by Sima Shi and Sima Zhao. Died in a failed coup to regain power from Sima ZhaoTemplate:Sfnm |
Cao Huan Template:Lang |
Emperor Yuan Template:Lang |
27 July 260 – 4 February 266 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Cao Cao and the first cousin once-removed of Cao Mao | 245–302 (aged 56–57) His reign was completely dominated by Sima Zhao and Sima Yan. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Shu Han (221–263)
[edit]Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liu Bei Template:Lang |
Emperor Zhaolie Template:Lang |
15 May 221 – 10 June 223 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Claimed to descend from Emperor Jing of Han. Conquered the Yi Province to found the Shu Han state | 161 – 10 June 223 (aged 61–62) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Liu Shan Template:Lang |
Emperor Xiaohuai Template:Lang |
June 223 – December 263 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
The son of Liu Bei | 207–271 (aged 63–64) Abdicated after the fall on the Shu capital of Chengdu in 263.Template:Sfnm |
Eastern Wu (222–280)
[edit]Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sun Quan Template:Lang |
Emperor Da Template:Lang |
23 May 229 – May 252 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
The son of Sun Jian; inherited the conquests of his brother Sun Ce. Proclaimed "King of Wu" in 221 and later "Emperor" in 229 | 182–252 (aged 69–70) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Sun Liang Template:Lang |
Emperor Fei Template:Lang |
May 252 – 9 November 258 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Sun Quan | 243–260 (aged 16–17) His reign was completely dominated by three successive regents: Zhuge Ke, Sun Jun and Sun Chen. He was later deposed and died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Sun Xiu Template:Lang |
Emperor Jing Template:Lang |
30 November 258 – 3 September 264 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Sun Quan | 235–264 (aged 28–29) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Sun Hao Template:Lang |
Emperor Mo Template:Lang |
3 September 264 – 1 May 280 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Sun He, former heir apparent to Sun Quan | 241–283 (aged 41–42) Eastern Wu was conquered by Sima Yan in 280. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfn |
Jin dynasty (266–420)
[edit]Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Western Jin (266–316)[edit] | ||||
Emperor Wu Template:Lang |
Sima Yan Template:Lang |
8 February 266 – 16 May 290 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Prince Sima Zhao, proclaimed emperor after the abdication of Cao Huan of Wei. He unified China after conquering Eastern Wu in 280 | 236–290 (aged 53–54) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Hui Template:Lang |
Sima Zhong Template:Lang |
16 May 290 – 8 January 307 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Wu, ruled under the regency of his wife, Jia Nanfeng, until her death in 300 CE | 259–307 (aged 47–48) Possibly mentally unstable, his reign was marked by the disastrous War of the Eight Princes. He was poisoned by Sima YueTemplate:Sfnm |
— | Sima Lun Template:Lang |
3 February – 30 May 301 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Prince of Zhao and son of Sima Yi, briefly usurped power from Emperor Hu | One of the infamous Eight Princes; often seen as an usurper. He was forced to commit suicide by Princes Jiong, Ying and YongTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Huai Template:Lang |
Sima Chi Template:Lang |
8 January 307 – 14 March 311 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Younger brother of Emperor Hui | 284–313 (aged 30–31) His reign, dominated by Sima Yue, saw widespread ethnic rebellions. He was deposed and killed by the Han-ZhaoTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Min Template:Lang |
Sima Ye Template:Lang |
14 March 313 – 7 February 316 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Emperor Huai, proclaimed emperor in Chang'an after the fall of Luoyang to the Five Barbarians. | 300 – 7 February 316 (aged 15–16) Killed by Liu Cong of Han-ZhaoTemplate:Sfnm |
Eastern Jin (318–420)[edit] | ||||
Emperor Yuan Template:Lang |
Sima Rui Template:Lang |
26 April 318 – 3 January 323 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Great-grandson of Sima Yi, proclaimed himself emperor with the help of Wang Dun in Jiankang after the fall of Chang'an. | 276 – 323 (aged 47) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Ming Template:Lang |
Sima Shao Template:Lang |
3 January 323 – 18 October 325 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Yuan | 299 – 325 (aged 26) His reign was dominated by Wang Dao and antagonized by Wang Dun. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Cheng Template:Lang |
Sima Yan Template:Lang |
19 October 325 – 26 July 342 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Ming, ruled initially under the regency of Yu Wenjun | 321 – 342 (aged 21) Dominated by Yu Liang, he was briefly deposed in 328 by rebel Su Jun. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Kang Template:Lang |
Sima Yue Template:Lang |
27 July 342 – 17 November 344 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Ming | 322 – 344 (aged 22) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Mu Template:Lang |
Sima Dan Template:Lang |
18 November 344 – 10 July 361 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Kang, "ruled" under the regency of Empress Dowager Chu until 357 | 343 – 361 (aged 18) The youngest Chinese emperor.Template:Efn Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Ai Template:Lang |
Sima Pi Template:Lang |
13 July 361 – 30 March 365 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Cheng, reigned alongside Empress Dowager Chu | 341 – 365 (aged 24) Died of drug poisoningTemplate:Sfnm |
none, known as: Emperor FeiTemplate:Efn Template:Lang |
Sima Yi Template:Lang |
31 March 365 – 6 January 372 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Cheng | 342 – 386 (aged 44) Deposed by Huan Wen, later dying of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Jianwen Template:Lang |
Sima Yu Template:Lang |
6 January – 19 August 372 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Yuan and great-great-grandson of Sima Yi, enthroned by Huan Wen | 320 – 372 (aged 52) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xiaowu Template:Lang |
Sima Yao Template:Lang |
19 August 372 – 6 November 396 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Jianwen | 362 – 396 (aged 34) His army's defeat of the Former Qin army at the Battle of Fei River led to the eventual collapse of the Former Qin. Killed by a jealous concubineTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor An Template:Lang |
Sima Dezong Template:Lang |
7 November 396 – 28 January 419 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Xiaowu | 382/3 – 419 (aged 36–37) Dominated by Sima Daozi, Huan Xuan and Liu Yu, he was killed by the latterTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Gong Template:Lang |
Sima Dewen Template:Lang |
28 January 419 – 5 July 420 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Xiaowu | 386 – 12 November 421 (aged 35) Abdicated in favor of Liu Yu (Emperor Wu of Song), later assassinatedTemplate:Sfnm |
Sixteen Kingdoms (304–439)
[edit]Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Li Xiong Template:Lang |
Emperor Wu Template:Lang |
304–334 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of rebel Li Te, proclaimed himself King in 304 and then Emperor in 306 | 274–334 (aged 59–60) Died of diseaseTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Ban Template:Lang |
Emperor Ai Template:Lang |
334 (less than a year) |
Nephew of Li Xiong | 274–334 (aged 59–60) Killed by Li QiTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Qi Template:Lang |
Duke You Template:Lang |
334–338 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Li Xiong | 314–338 (aged 23–24) Committed suicideTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Shou Template:Lang |
Emperor Xiaowen Template:Lang |
338–343 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Li Te, usurped power from Li Qi and renamed the state from "Cheng” to “Han” | 300–343 (aged 42–43) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Shi Template:Lang |
Marquess of Guiyi Template:Lang |
343–347 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Li Shou | Abdicated to Huan Wen after the fall of Cheng in 347. Died of natural causes in 361 in the Eastern Jin capitalTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liu Yuan Template:Lang |
Emperor Guangwen Template:Lang |
304–310 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Rebelled against the Jin dynasty. Proclaimed himself King of Han in 304 and Emperor in 308 | Template:Circa 250–310 (aged approx. 60) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfn |
Liu He Template:Lang |
– | 310 (less than a year) |
Son of Liu Yuan | Killed by his brother Liu CongTemplate:Sfn |
Liu Cong Template:Lang |
Emperor Zhaowu Template:Lang |
310–318 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Liu Yuan | Died of natural causes in 318Template:Sfn |
Liu Can Template:Lang |
Emperor Yin Template:Lang |
318 (less than a year) |
Son of Liu Cong | Killed by officer Jin Zhun in 318Template:Sfn |
Liu Yao Template:Lang |
– | 318–329 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Liu Yuan, changed the dynastic title from "Han" to "Zhao" | Ended the Western Jin in 316. Captured and killed by Shi Le of Later ZhaoTemplate:Sfn |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Shi Le Template:Lang |
Emperor Ming Template:Lang |
319–333 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Rebelled with Ji Sang during the War of the Eight Princes. Proclaimed himself King of Zhao in 319 and then Emperor in 330 | 374–333 (aged 58–59) Ended the Former Zhao in 329. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Shi Hong Template:Lang |
– | 333–334 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shi Le | 313–334 (aged 20–21) Deposed and killed by Shi HuTemplate:Sfnm |
Shi Hu Template:Lang |
Emperor Wu Template:Lang |
334–349 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Shi Le, usurped power from Shi Hong in 334. Ruled as Heavenly King until 349 | 295–349 (aged 53–54) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Shi Shi Template:Lang |
– | 349 (less than a year) |
Son of Shi Hu | 339–349 (aged 9–10) MurderedTemplate:Sfnm |
Shi Zun Template:Lang |
– | 349 (less than a year) |
Son of Shi Hu | Killed by Ran MinTemplate:Sfnm |
Shi Jian Template:Lang |
– | 349–350 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shi Hu, enthroned by Ran Min | Killed by Ran MinTemplate:Sfnm |
Shi Zhi Template:Lang |
– | 350–351 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shi Hu | Gave up the imperial title in 351, later killed by a subordinate officerTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Zhang Mao Template:Lang |
Duke Cheng Template:Lang |
320–324 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of governor Zhang Gui | 377–324 (aged 52–53) Made vassal of Former Zhao in 323. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhang Jun Template:Lang |
Duke Zhongcheng Template:Lang |
324–346 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of governor Zhang Shi | 307–346 (aged 38–39) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhang Chonghua Template:Lang |
Duke Huan Template:Lang |
346–353 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Zhang Jun, didn't assume the dynastic title until 349 | 327–353 (aged 25–26) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhang Yaoling Template:Lang |
Duke Ai Template:Lang |
353 (less than a year) |
Son of Zhang Chonghua | 344–355 (aged 25–26) Killed by Zhang ZuoTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhang Zuo Template:Lang |
King Wei Template:Lang |
354–355 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhang Jun | Discontinued the use of Western Jin era names before being killed in 355Template:Sfnm |
Zhang Xuanjing Template:Lang |
Duke Chong Template:Lang |
355–363 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhang Chonghua | 350–363 (aged 12–13) Killed by Zhang TianxiTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhang Tianxi Template:Lang |
Duke Dao Template:Lang |
363–376 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhang Jun | 346–406 (aged 59–60) Surrendered to the Former Qin, later dying of natural causes in Eastern JinTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Murong Huang Template:Lang |
Emperor Wenming Template:Lang |
337–348 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of governor Murong Hui, proclaimed himself Prince of Yan in 337. Remained loyal to the Jin | 297–348 (aged 50–51) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Murong Jun Template:Lang |
Emperor Jingzhao Template:Lang |
348–360 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Murong Huang, proclaimed himself Emperor in 352 | 319–360 (aged 38–39) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Murong Wei Template:Lang |
Emperor You Template:Lang |
360–370 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Murong Jun, ruled under the regency of Murong Ping | 350–384 (aged 33–34) Captured by Former Qin in 370, executed by Fu Jiān in 384 after a failed coupTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Murong Chui Template:Lang |
Emperor Wucheng Template:Lang |
384–396 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Prince Murong Huang of Former Yan, reestablished his kingdom after the Battle of Fei River | 326–396 (aged 70) Conquered Western Yan in 394Template:Sfnm |
Murong Bao Template:Lang |
Emperor Huimin Template:Lang |
396–398 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Murong Chui | 355–398 (aged 43) Killed by the usurper Lan HanTemplate:Sfnm |
Murong Sheng Template:Lang |
Emperor Zhaowu Template:Lang |
398–401 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Murong Bao, came to power after killing Lan Han | 373–401 (aged 28) Killed by general Duan JiTemplate:Sfnm |
Murong Xi Template:Lang |
Emperor Zhaowen Template:Lang |
401–407 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Murong Chui | 385–407 (aged 22) Killed by Feng BaTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Yao Chang Template:Lang |
Emperor Wuzhao Template:Lang |
384–393 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Proclaimed King after the Battle of Fei River, then Emperor after killing Fu Jiān of Former Qin | 343–394 (aged 51) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Yao Xing Template:Lang |
Emperor Wenhuan Template:Lang |
394–416 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yao Chang | 366–416 (aged 50) Conquered Former Qin and Later Liang. Favored Buddhism and Taoism.Template:Sfnm |
Yao Hong Template:Lang |
– | 416–417 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yao Xing | 388–417 (aged 29) Executed by the Eastern JinTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Qifu Guoren Template:Lang |
Prince Xuanlie Template:Lang |
385–388 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Former general of Former Qin | Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Qifu Gangui Template:Lang |
Prince Wuyuan Template:Lang |
388–412 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Younger brother of Qifu Guoren | Surrendered to Later Qin in 400, reclaimed the throne in 409. Killed by his nephewTemplate:Sfnm |
Qifu Chipan Template:Lang |
Prince Wenzhao Template:Lang |
412–428 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Qifu Gangui | Conquered Southern Liang in 414Template:Sfnm |
Qifu Mumo Template:Lang |
– | 428–431 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Qifu Chipan | Killed by the XiaTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Lü Guang Template:Lang |
Emperor Yiwu Template:Lang |
386–399 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Former general of Former Qin, proclaimed himself Duke of Jiuquan in 386 and Heavenly King in 396 | 337–399 (aged 19) Abdicated in favor of his sonTemplate:Sfnm |
Lü Shao Template:Lang |
Prince Yin Template:Lang |
399 (less than a year) |
Son of Lü Guang | Forced to commit suicide by his brotherTemplate:Sfnm |
Lü Zuan Template:Lang |
Emperor Ling Template:Lang |
399–401 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Lü Guang | Killed by Lü Chao, Guang's nephewTemplate:Sfnm |
Lü Long Template:Lang |
– | 401–403 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Lü Guang | Killed by Yao Hong of Later QinTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tufa Wugu Template:Lang |
Prince Wu Template:Lang |
397–399 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Proclaimed himself Great Chanyu | Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Tufa Lilugu Template:Lang |
Prince Kang Template:Lang |
399–402 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Elder brother of Tufa Wugu | Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Tufa Rutan Template:Lang |
Prince Jing Template:Lang |
402–414 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Elder brother Tufa Lilugu | 364–415 (aged 51) Captured and killed by Western QinTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Duan Ye Template:Lang |
– | 397–401 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Governor of Later Liang, proclaimed himself Prince of Liang in 397 | Killed by Juqu MengxunTemplate:Sfnm |
Juqu Mengxun Template:Lang |
– | 401–433 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Former ally of Duan Ye, proclaimed himself Duke of Zhangye | Conquered Western Liang in 421Template:Sfnm |
Juqu Mujian Template:Lang |
Prince Ai Template:Lang |
433–439 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Juqu Mengxun | Defeated by Northern Wei, later forced to commit suicide in 449 for seditionTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Murong De Template:Lang |
Emperor Xianwu Template:Lang |
398–405 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Younger brother of Murong Chui of Later Yan, declared himself Prince in 398 and then Emperor in 400 | 336–405 (aged 69) Captured and killed by Western QinTemplate:Sfnm |
Murong Chao Template:Lang |
– | 405–410 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Uncertain succession | 385–410 (aged 25) Captured and killed by Eastern JinTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Li Gao Template:Lang |
Prince Wuzhao Template:Lang |
400–417 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Governor of Dunhuang under Duan Ye of Northern Liang, declared himself Duke | 351–417 (aged 66) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Xin Template:Lang |
– | 417–420 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Li Gao | Killed by Juqu Mengxun of Northern LiangTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Xun Template:Lang |
– | 420–421 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Li Gao | Committed suicide after the fall of DunhuangTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Helian Bobo Template:Lang |
Emperor Wulie Template:Lang |
407–425 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Subordinate of Yao Xing of Later Qin, declared himself Heavenly King in 407 and then Emperor at Chang'an in 418 | 381–425 (aged 44) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Helian Chang Template:Lang |
– | 425–428 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Helian Bobo | Executed by Northern Wei in 434Template:Sfnm |
Helian Ding Template:Lang |
– | 428–431 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Helian Bobo | Executed by Tuyuhun in 432Template:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gao Yun Template:Lang |
Emperor Huiyi Template:Lang |
407–409 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Adopted son of Murong Bao or Later Yan, proclaimed Heavenly King by Feng Ba | Killed by his underlingsTemplate:Sfn |
Feng Ba Template:Lang |
Emperor Wencheng Template:Lang |
409–430 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Seized power after Yun's death | Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfn |
Feng Hong Template:Lang |
Emperor Zhaocheng Template:Lang |
430–436 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Younger brother of Feng Ba | Defeated by Northern Wei, later murdered in GoguryeoTemplate:Sfn |
Northern and Southern Dynasties (420–589)
[edit]Northern Dynasties (420–581)
[edit]Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Daowu Template:Lang |
Tuoba Gui Template:Lang |
20 February 386 – 409 Template:Collapsible list |
Leader of the Tuoba, refounded the Dai State as Wei | 371–409 (aged 39) Killed by his son Tuoba ShaoTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Mingyuan Template:Lang |
Tuoba Si Template:Lang |
409–423 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Daowu | 392–423 (aged 31) Died of diseaseTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Taiwu Template:Lang |
Tuoba Tao Template:Lang |
423–452 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Mingyuan | 408–452 (aged 43–44) Conquered Xia, Northern Yan and Liang. Killed by eunuch Zong AiTemplate:Sfnm |
Tuoba Yu Template:Lang |
Tuoba Yu Template:Lang |
452 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Taiwu. Put on the throne by eunuch Zong Ai | Killed by Zong AiTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Wencheng Template:Lang |
Tuoba Jun Template:Lang |
452–465 Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Taiwu. Ascended to the throne after the murder of Zong. | 440–465 (aged 24–25) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xianwen Template:Lang |
Tuoba Hong Template:Lang |
465–471 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Wencheng | 454–476 (aged 21–22) Abdicated in favor of his son Yuan Hong, later dying of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xiaowen Template:Lang |
Tuoba Hong Template:Lang Yuan Hong Template:Lang |
471–499 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xianwen, ruled under the regency of Empress Dowager Feng until 470. | 467–499 (aged 31–32) One of the most significant reformers in medieval China. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xuanwu Template:Lang |
Yuan Ke Template:Lang |
499–515 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xiaowen | 483–515 (aged 31–32) His reign marked the decline of WeiTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xiaoming Template:Lang |
Yuan Xu Template:Lang |
515–528 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xuanwu | 510–528 (aged 17–18) Killed in a power struggle against Empress Dowager HuTemplate:Sfnm |
None, known as Youzhu of Northern Wei Template:Lang |
Yuan Zhao Template:Lang |
528 | Enthroned by Empress Dowager Hu | 526–528 (aged 2) Killed by general Erzhu RongTemplate:Sfn |
Emperor Xiaozhuang Template:Lang |
Yuan Ziyou Template:Lang |
528–530 Template:Collapsible list |
Enthroned by Erzhu Rong | 507–early 531 (aged 24) Killed by general Erzhu ZhaoTemplate:Sfnm |
Yuan Ye Template:Lang |
Yuan Ye Template:Lang |
530–531 Template:Collapsible list |
Enthroned by the Erzhu Clan in opposition to Xiaozhuang | Executed in 532Template:Sfnm |
Emperor Jiemin Template:Lang |
Yuan Gong Template:Lang |
531–532 Template:Collapsible list |
Enthroned by Erzhu Shilong | 498–532 (aged 33–34) Deposed and executed by Gao HuanTemplate:Sfnm |
Yuan Lang Template:Lang |
Yuan Lang Template:Lang |
531–532 Template:Collapsible list |
Enthroned by Gao Huan | 513–532 (aged 19–18) Deposed and executed by Gao HuanTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xiaowu Template:Lang |
Yuan Xiu Template:Lang |
532–535 Template:Collapsible list |
Enthroned by Gao Huan | 510–early 535 (aged 25) Fled to Chang’an, where he was poisoned by Yuwen Tai of Northern ZhouTemplate:Sfnm |
Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Xiaojing Template:Lang |
Yuan Shanjian Template:Lang |
534–550 Template:Collapsible list |
Enthroned by Gao Huan | 524–552 (aged 27–28) Forced to abdicate and later poisoned by Gao YangTemplate:Sfnm |
Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Wenxuan Template:Lang |
Gao Yang Template:Lang |
550–559 Template:Collapsible list |
Regent of Eastern Wei, proclaimed himself emperor after deposing Emperor Xiaojing | 529–559 (aged 29–30) Supposedly suffered insanity in his late reign. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Fei Template:Lang |
Gao Yin Template:Lang |
559–560 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Wenxuan, enthroned by official Yang Yin | 545–561 (aged 15–16) Forced to abdicate by his uncles Gao Yan and Gao Zhan, later executedTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xiaozhao Template:Lang |
Gao Yan Template:Lang |
560–561 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Gao Huan, seized power through a palace coup | 535–559 (aged 25–26) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Wucheng Template:Lang |
Gao Zhan Template:Lang |
561–565 Template:Collapsible list |
Brother of Xiaozhao | 537–569 (aged 31–32) Abdicated in favor of his son, later dying of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Gao Wei Template:Lang |
Gao Wei Template:Lang |
565–577 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Wucheng, ruled under his father's regency until 569 | 557–577 (aged 19–20) Abdicated in favor of his son, later killed by Northern ZhouTemplate:Sfnm |
Gao Heng Template:Lang |
Gao Heng Template:Lang |
577 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Gao Wei | 557–577 (aged 19–20) Abdicated in favor of his uncle Gao Jie, but was soon killed alongside himTemplate:Sfnm |
Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Wen Template:Lang |
Yuan Baoyu Template:Lang |
535–551 Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei | 507–551 (aged 43–44) Killed by Yuwen Tai of Northern ZhouTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Fei Template:Lang |
Yuan Qin Template:Lang |
551–554 | Son of Emperor Wen, enthroned by Yuwen Tai | Poisoned to death by Yuwen TaiTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Gong Template:Lang |
Yuan Kuo Template:Lang |
554–556 | Son of Emperor Wen, enthroned by Yuwen Tai | 537–557 (aged 19–20) Abdicated in favor of Yuwen Jue, Tai's son. Killed shortly afterTemplate:Sfnm |
Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Xiaomin Template:Lang |
Yuwen Jue Template:Lang |
557 | Son of Yuwen Tai, proclaimed himself Heavenly King under Yuwen Hu's patronage and refounded the Northern Wei State as Zhou | 542–557 (aged 14–15) Poisoned to death after a failed coup against Yuwen HuTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Ming Template:Lang |
Yuwen Yu Template:Lang |
557–560 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yuwen Tai, ruled alongside Yuwen Hu | 534–560 (aged 25–26) Poisoned to death by Yuwen HuTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Wu Template:Lang |
Yuwen Yong Template:Lang |
561–578 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yuwen Tai, sole ruler after deposing Yuwen Hu in 572 | 543–578 (aged 34–35) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xuan Template:Lang |
Yuwen Yun Template:Lang |
578–579 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yuwen Yong | 559–580 (aged 34–35) He neglected government and abdicated in favor of his sonTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Jing Template:Lang |
Yuwen Yan Template:Lang Yuwen Chan Template:Lang |
579–581 Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yuwen Yun | 573–581 (aged 7–8) Killed by officer Yang Jian, the future Emperor Wen of SuiTemplate:Sfnm |
Southern Dynasties (420–589)
[edit]Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Wu Template:Lang |
Xiao Yan Template:Lang |
502–549 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Overthrew the Southern Qi | 464–549 (aged 85) Imprisoned during the rebellion of Hou Jing, died of hungerTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Jianwen Template:Lang |
Xiao Gang Template:Lang |
549–551 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Wu, enthroned by Hou Jing | 503–551 (aged 47–48) Deposed and killed by Hou JingTemplate:Sfnm |
None, known by his personal name | Xiao Dong Template:Lang |
551 (less than a year) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Xiao Tong and great-grandson of Emperor Wu, enthroned by Hou Jing | 503–551 (aged 47–48) Deposed by Hou Jing and killed by Xiao YiTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Yuan Template:Lang |
Xiao Yi Template:Lang |
552–555 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Wu. Sole ruler after defeating Hou Jing in 552 and Xiao Ji in 553. | 508–555 (aged 46–47) Captured and killed by Western WeiTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Min Template:Lang |
Xiao Yuanming Template:Lang |
555 (less than a year) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Wu, enthroned by official Wang Sengbian | Deposed by Chen Baxian, died of natural causes in 556Template:Sfnm |
Emperor Jin Template:Lang |
Xiao Fangzhi Template:Lang |
555–557 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yuan, enthroned by Chen Baxian | 543–558 (aged 14–15) Deposed and killed by Chen BaxianTemplate:Sfnm |
Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Xuan Template:Lang |
Xiao Cha Template:Lang |
555–562 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xiao Tong and grandson of Emperor Wu, enthroned by Western Wei | 519–562 (aged 42–43) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfn |
Emperor Ming Template:Lang |
Xiao Kui Template:Lang |
562–585 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xiao Cha | 542–585 (aged 42–43) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfn |
Emperor Jing Template:Lang |
Xiao Cong Template:Lang |
585–587 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xiao Kui | Deposed by Emperor Wen of Sui in 587, died of natural causes Template:Circa 607Template:Sfn |
Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Emperor Wu Template:Lang |
Chen Baxian Template:Lang |
557–559 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Overthrew the Liang Dynasty | 503–559 (aged 55–56) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Wen Template:Lang |
Chen Qian Template:Lang |
559–566 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Chen Baxian | 522–566 (aged 43–44) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Fei Template:Lang |
Chen Bozong Template:Lang |
566–568 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Emperor Wen | 554–570 (aged 15–16) Deposed by his uncleTemplate:Sfnm |
Emperor Xuan Template:Lang |
Chen Xu Template:Lang |
569–582 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Younger brother of Emperor Wen | 528–582 (aged 59–60) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Chen Houzhu Template:Lang |
Chen Shubao Template:Lang |
582–589 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Emperor Xuan | 553–604 (aged 50–51) Neglect of government, he was captured by the Sui army. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Mid-imperial China
[edit]Sui dynasty (581–619)
[edit]Portrait | Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
File:Sui Wendi Tang.jpg | Wen Template:Lang |
Yang Jian Template:Lang |
4 March 581 – 13 August 604 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yang Zhong, Duke of Sui. Overthrew the Northern Zhou and conquered the other Chinese states | 21 July 541 – 13 August 604 (aged 63) Instituted several institutional reforms and promoted Buddhism. Murdered by his sonTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Sui Yangdi Tang.jpg | Yang Template:Lang |
Yang Guang Template:Lang |
21 August 604 – 11 April 618 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Wen | 569 – 11 April 618 (aged 51) Led several construction projects and military campaigns. Overthrown in a rebellion and killed by his underlingsTemplate:Sfnm |
Gong Template:Lang |
Yang You Template:Lang |
18 December 617 – 12 June 618Template:Efn (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Wen | 605 – 619 (aged 14) A puppet of Li Yuan. Deposed and later executedTemplate:Sfnm |
Tang and Zhou dynasties (618–907)
[edit]Template:Main list Template:Further
Portrait | Temple name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Early Tang (618–690)[edit] | |||||
File:TangGaozu.jpg | Gaozu Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Yuan Template:Lang |
18 June 618 – 4 September 626 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Li Bing, Duke of Tang and officer of Northern Zhou. Claimed descent from Li Gao, founder of Western Liang | 566 – 25 June 635 (aged 69) Abdicated in favor of his son following the Xuanwu Gate Incident. A fair and capable ruler, his reign is said to have started a golden age in Chinese history, although imperial propaganda often underestimated his reign to exalt that of his sonTemplate:Sfnm |
File:TangTaizong- cropped.jpg | Taizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Shimin Template:Lang |
4 September 626 – 10 July 649 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Gaozu; named heir after the murder of Crown Prince Li Jiancheng in the Xuanwu Gate Incident | 23 January 597/99 – 10 July 649 (aged 50–52) Considered one of the greatest emperors in Chinese history, both as a conqueror and administrator. His reign saw a territorial expansion and economic growth not seen since the Han dynasty. Died after a period of prolonged illness, possibly due to alchemical elixir poisoningTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Gaozong of Tang.jpg (non-contemporary) |
Gaozong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Zhi Template:Lang |
15 July 649 – 27 December 683 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Taizong | 20 July 628 – 27 December 683 (aged 55) A well-meaning but ineffectual ruler, his reign was dominated by several successive regencies. Suffered a serious stroke in late 660, whereafter the government was run by his wife, the future Empress Wu Zetian. Died after several years of illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Tang Zhongzong.png (non-contemporary) |
Zhongzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Xian Template:Lang |
3 January 684 – 26 February 684 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Gaozong and Wu Zetian | 26 November 656 – 3 July 710 (aged 53) Deposed by his mother after challenging her authorityTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Tang Ruizong.png | Ruizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Dan Template:Lang |
27 February 684 – 16 October 690 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Gaozong and Wu Zetian | 22 June 662 – 13 July 716 (aged 54) A complete puppet of his mother; forced to abdicateTemplate:Sfnm |
Wu Zhou (690–705)[edit] | |||||
File:唐后行從圖 (局部) - 武則天.png | none, known as Wu Zetian Template:LangTemplate:Efn Template:Collapsible list |
Wu Zhao Template:Lang |
16 October 690 – 21 February 705 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Former consort of emperors Taizong and Gaozong; regent since November 660, de facto ruler since January 683 | 623/625 – 16 December 705 (aged 81–83) Only female sovereign in Chinese history. Notable for her contribution to the Imperial examination system and her support for Buddhism, but also for her violent methods of enforcement. Deposed by Zhang Jianzhi; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Tang restoration (705–907)[edit] | |||||
File:Tang Zhongzong.png (non-contemporary) |
Zhongzong (second reign) |
Li Xian Template:Lang |
23 February 705 – 3 July 710 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Restored to the throne by Tang loyalists | 26 November 656 – 3 July 710 (aged 53) A weak ruler; he died after eating a poisoned cake delivered by his wife, Empress WeiTemplate:Sfnm |
none, known as Emperor Shang Template:LangTemplate:Efn |
Li Chongmao Template:Lang |
8 July 710 – 25 July 710 (17 days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhongzong; installed by Empress Wei | 698–714 (aged 16)
Second shortest-reigning emperor; deposed in a palace coupTemplate:Sfnm | |
File:Tang Ruizong.png (non-contemporary) |
Ruizong (second reign) |
Li Dan Template:Lang |
25 July 710 – 8 September 712 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Restored to the throne by detractors of Empress Wei | 22 June 662 – 13 July 716 (aged 54) Spent his reign in a constant power struggle with his sister, Princess Taiping. Abdicated in favor of his son to undermine her influenceTemplate:Sfnm |
File:李隆基像.jpg (non-contemporary) |
Xuanzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Longji Template:Lang |
8 September 712 – 12 August 756 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Ruizong | 8 September 685 – 3 May 762 (aged 76) One of the greatest and longest reigning Chinese emperors. The Tang empire reached its peak during his early reign, but fell of grace at the end as a result of the disastrous An Lushan Rebellion. Abdicated in favor of his sonTemplate:Sfnm |
File:TangSuzong.jpg | Suzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Jun Template:Lang |
12 August 756 – 16 May 762 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xuanzong; proclaimed emperor in Lingwu | 711 – 16 May 762 (aged 51) Recaptured Chang'an in November 757. During his reign the eunuchs grew increasingly powerful.Template:Sfnm |
File:Tang Daizong.jpg | Daizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Chu Template:Lang |
18 May 762 – 10 June 779 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Suzong; proclaimed emperor in Chang'an | 9 January 727 – 10 June 779 (aged 52) Ended the An–Shi Rebellion, but failed to maintain control over the far provincesTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Tang Dezong.jpg | Dezong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Kuo Template:Lang |
12 June 779 – 25 February 805 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Daizong | 27 May 742 – 25 February 805 (aged 62) Notable for his tax reforms, he also attempted to control regional jiedushi, but this backfired and caused a military mutiny in 783Template:Sfnm |
Shunzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Song Template:Lang |
28 February – 28 August 805 (6 months) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Dezong | February 761 – 11 February 806 (aged 45) Aphasic, weak and ill, he was urged to abdicate by the court eunuchsTemplate:Sfnm | |
File:TangXianzong.jpg (non-contemporary) |
Xianzong 憲宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Chun Template:Lang |
5 September 805 – 14 February 820 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shunzong | March 778 – 14 February 820 (aged 41) Ended the warlord threat, but ended up becoming a puppet of the eunuchs. A drug addict, he was poisoned to death by eunuch Chen HongzhiTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Muzong.jpg | Muzong 穆宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Heng Template:Lang |
20 February 820 – 25 February 824 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xianzong | July 795 – 25 February 824 (aged 28) Suffered a serious stroke in 822 (while playing polo), whereafter the government was run by eunuchs Wang Shoucheng and Li Fengji.Template:Sfnm |
File:帝鉴图说.Recueil Historique des Principaux Traits de la Vie des Empereurs Chinois.95帧图.彩绘册页.约18世纪 (唐敬宗) (cropped).jpg (non-contemporary) |
Jingzong 敬宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Zhan Template:Lang |
29 February 824 – 9 January 827 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Muzong | 22 July 809 – 9 January 827 (aged 17) A reckless player of football; he was killed by eunuchsTemplate:Sfnm |
File:TangWenzongAlt.jpg | Wenzong 文宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Ang Template:Lang |
13 January 827 – 10 February 840 (13 years lacking 3 days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Muzong | 20 November 809 – 10 February 840 (aged 30) Attempted to eradicate the eunuchs in the Sweet Dew incident (835), but ended up making them stronger. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Tang Wuzong.jpg (non-contemporary) |
Wuzong 武宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Yan Template:Lang |
20 February 840 – 22 April 846 (6 years, 2 months and 2 days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Muzong | 2 July 814 – 22 April 846 (aged 31) Notable for his persecution of Buddhism. Died of drug overdoseTemplate:Sfnm |
Xuanzong 宣宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Chen Template:Lang |
25 April 846 – 7 September 859 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xianzong | 27 July 810 – 7 September 859 (aged 49) Arguably the last capable Tang emperor. Notable for his campaigns against the Tibetan Empire. Died of drug overdoseTemplate:Sfnm | |
File:TangYizong.jpg | Yizong 懿宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Cui Template:Lang |
13 September 859 – 15 August 873 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xuanzong | 28 December 833 – 15 August 873 (aged 39) A devout Buddhist, but also a cruel and unstable ruler. His reign, which was dominated by eunuchs, saw various revolts that severely weakened imperial powerTemplate:Sfnm |
File:唐僖宗帝(殘唐五代史演義傳).jpg (non-contemporary) |
Xizong 僖宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Xuan Template:Lang |
16 August 873 – 20 April 888 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yizong | 8 June 862 – 20 April 888 (aged 25) A puppet of Tian Lingzi, had to flee Chang'an twice due to internal strifeTemplate:Sfnm |
None, known by his personal name | Li Yun Template:Lang |
31 October 886 – January 887 (3 months) Template:Collapsible list |
Great-grandson of Suzong, took power in Chang'an | Died in 887
Killed by Xizong's forces; often seen as an usurperTemplate:Sfnm | |
File:Zhaozong.jpg | Zhaozong 昭宗 Template:Collapsible list |
Li Ye Template:Lang |
20 April 888 – 22 September 904 (Template:Age in years, months and days)Template:Efn Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yizong | 31 March 867 – 22 September 904 (aged 37) His reign saw the final collapse of imperial authority and the rise of new powerful warlords. He was killed by rebel Zhu WenTemplate:Sfnm |
better known as Emperor Ai Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Li Zhu Template:Lang |
26 September 904 – 1 June 907 (Template:Age in years, months and days)Template:Efn |
Son of Zhaozong, proclaimed emperor in Luoyang | 27 October 892 – 25 March 908 (aged 15) Installed, deposed, and later killed by Zhu WenTemplate:Sfnm |
Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms
[edit]Five Dynasties (907–912)
[edit]Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Zhu Wen Template:Lang |
Taizu Template:Lang |
907–912 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Former ally of rebel Huang Chao, defected to the Imperial army in 882 but later betrayed the Tang and proclaimed himself Emperor in Kaifeng | 852–912 (aged 60) Killed by his sonTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhu Yougui Template:Lang |
— | 912–913 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhu Wen, usurped power after learning of his father's intentions of adopting Zhu Youwen as heir | Died in 913
Described as murderous and lustful, he was killed by his brotherTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhu Youzhen Template:Lang |
— | 913–923 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhu Wen | 888–923 (aged 35) Killed by the forces of Li CunxuTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Li Cunxu Template:Lang |
Zhuangzong Template:Lang |
923–926 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Proclaimed himself Emperor after conquering Later Liang | 885–926 (aged 41) Killed in a coupTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Siyuan Template:Lang |
Mingzong Template:Lang |
926–933 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Adopted son of Li Keyong, took Luoyang and proclaimed himself Emperor after the murder of Li Cunxu | 867–933 (aged 66) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Conghou Template:Lang |
— | 934 (less than a year) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Li Siyuan | 914–early 934 (aged 20) Killed by Li CongkeTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Congke Template:Lang |
— | 934–937 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Adopted son of Li Siyuan, he usurped power from Li Conghou | 884/6–936 (aged 50–52) Defeated by Shi Jingtang of Later Jin, he burned himself to deathTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Shi Jingtang Template:Lang |
Gaozu Template:Lang |
936–942 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Proclaimed himself emperor with the help of the Shatuo and Khitan people | 892–942 (aged 50) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Shi Chonggui Template:Lang |
— | 942–947 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Nephew of Shi Jingtang | 914–947 (aged 33) Captured by Emperor Taizong of Liao but spared; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liu Zhiyuan Template:Lang |
Gaozu Template:Lang |
947–948 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Jiedushi under the Later Jin, proclaimed himself emperor after the capture of Shi Chonggui by the Khitan | 895–948 (aged 53) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Liu Chengyou Template:Lang |
— | 948–951 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Liu Zhiyuan | 931–951 (aged 20) Killed by the forces of Guo WeiTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Guo Wei Template:Lang |
Taizu Template:Lang |
951–954 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Officer of Later Han, proclaimed himself emperor and dethroned Liu Chengyou | 904–954 (aged 50) Died of natural causes; introduced reforms that greatly benefited farmingTemplate:Sfnm |
Chai Rong Template:Lang |
Shizong Template:Lang |
954–959 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Adopted son of Guo Wei | 921–959 (aged 38) Conquered Eastern and Southwest China; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Chai Zongxun Template:Lang |
— | 959–960 (Template:Age in years years) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Chai Rong | 953–973 (aged 20) Deposed by Emperor Taizu of SongTemplate:Sfnm |
Ten Kingdoms (907–979)
[edit]Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wang Jian Template:Lang |
Gaozu Template:Lang |
907–918 (Template:Age in years years) |
Rebelled against the Tang in 891, named Prince in 903 and later proclaimed himself emperor in 907 | 847–918 (aged 69) Died of natural causes; known for his great tomb and stone statuesTemplate:Sfnm |
Wang Zongyan Template:Lang |
— | 918–925 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wang Jian | 899–926 (aged 27) Lustful and neglected of government, he was killed by Li CunxuTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Yang Xingmi Template:Lang |
Taizu Template:Lang |
902–905 (Template:Age in years years) |
Took over Yangzhou in 892 and was named "Prince of Wu" in 902, became independent after the fall of the Tang | 852–905 (aged 53) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Yang Wo Template:Lang |
— | 905–908 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Yang Xingmi | 886–908 (aged 22) Killed by Zhang Hao and Xu WenTemplate:Sfnm |
Yang Longyan Template:Lang |
— | 908–920 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Yang Xingmi, enthroned by Xu Wen | 897–920 (aged 23) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Yang Pu Template:Lang |
— | 920–937 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Yang Xingmi and enthroned by Xu Zhigao (Li Bian), declared himself Emperor in 927 | 901–938 (aged 37) Forced to abdicate to Li Bian of Southern Tang; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ma Yin Template:Lang |
Prince Wumu Template:Lang |
907–930 (Template:Age in years years) |
A carpenter who rose from the ranks to become prefect of Tanzhou in 896, he was named Prince in 927 by Li Siyuan | 852–930 (aged 78) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Ma Xisheng Template:Lang |
Prince of Hengyang Template:Lang |
930–932 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Ma Yin | 899–932 (aged 33) An admirer of Zhu Wen, he cooked 50 chickens a day; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Ma Xifan Template:Lang |
Prince Wenzhao Template:Lang |
932–947 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Ma Yin, didn't assume his title until later in his reign | 899–947 (aged 48) Known for his extravagance and his building projects; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Ma Xiguang Template:Lang |
— | 947–951 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Ma Yin | Died in 951
Deposed and later killed by his brotherTemplate:Sfnm |
Ma Xi'e Template:Lang |
— | 951 (less than a year) |
Son of Ma Yin | Deposed by his brother, fate unknownTemplate:Sfnm |
Ma Xichong Template:Lang |
— | 951 (less than a year) |
Son of Ma Yin | Deposed by the Southern Tang with the help of Xi’e's supporters, fate unknownTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Qian Liu Template:Lang |
Prince Wusu Template:Lang |
907–932 (Template:Age in years years) |
Named "Prince of Wuyue" by Later Liang | 852–932 (aged 80) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Qian Yuanguan Template:Lang |
Prince Wensu Template:Lang |
932–941 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Qian Liu | 887–941 (aged 54) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Qian Hongzuo Template:Lang |
Prince Zhongxian Template:Lang |
941–947 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Qian Yuanguan | 928–947 (aged 69) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Qian Hongzong Template:Lang |
Prince Zhongxun Template:Lang |
947–early 948 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Qian Yuanguan | Template:Circa 929–Template:Circa 971 (aged approx. 42) Deposed by general Hu Jinsi, fate unknownTemplate:Sfnm |
Qian Chu Template:Lang |
Prince Zhongyi Template:Lang |
978 (less than a year) |
Son of Qian Yuanguan | 929–988 (aged 59) Surrendered to the Song dynasty, died of sudden illness or poisoningTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wang Shenzhi Template:Lang |
Taizu Template:Lang |
909–925 (Template:Age in years years) |
Younger brother of warlord Wang Chao, named wang of Min by Later Liang | 862–925 (aged 63) One of the most peaceful reign periods of the period; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Wang Yanhan Template:Lang |
— | 926–927 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wang Shenzhi | Died in 927
Killed by his brotherTemplate:Sfnm |
Wang Yanjun Template:Lang |
Huizong Template:Lang |
927–935 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wang Shenzhi, proclaimed Prince in 928 and later Emperor in 933 | Died in 935
Killed by his sonTemplate:Sfnm |
Wang Jipeng Template:Lang Wang Chang Template:Lang |
Kangzong Template:Lang |
935–939 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wang Yanjun | Died in 939
A devout Taoist, he was killed in a coupTemplate:Sfnm |
Wang Yanxi Template:Lang |
Jingzong Template:Lang |
939–944 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Wang Shenzhi | Died in 944
A despotic ruler, he was killed by Lian Chongyu and his associatesTemplate:Sfnm |
Wang Yanzheng Template:Lang |
Gongyi Template:Lang |
945 (less than a year) |
Proclaimed himself "Prince of Yin" to rival his brother Wang Yanxi | Died in 945
Defeated by Southern Tang, died of natural causes in captivityTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liu Yan Template:Lang |
Gaozu Template:Lang |
917–942 (Template:Age in years years) |
Took over of Guangzhou in 911, proclaimed himself Emperor of Yue (renamed "Han" in 918) | 889–942 (aged 63) A despotic and extravagant ruler; died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Liu Bin Template:Lang |
— | 942–943 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Liu Yan | 920–943 (aged 63) An hedonistic ruler; he was killed by his brotherTemplate:Sfnm |
Liu Sheng Template:Lang |
Zhongzong Template:Lang |
943–958 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Liu Yan | 920–958 (aged 38) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Liu Chang Template:Lang |
— | 958–971 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Liu Sheng | 943–980 (aged 37) Another hedonistic ruler, he surrendered to the Song army and was sparedTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal Name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gao Jixing Template:Lang |
— | 924–early 929 (Template:Age in years years) |
Named King of Nanping by Later Tang in 924, ruled under the vassalage of Wu | 858–929 (aged 71) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Gao Conghui Template:Lang |
— | 929–948 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Gao Jixing | 891–948 (aged 57) A weak ruler, he was nicknamed "Gao the Jerk" (高賴子); died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Gao Baorong Template:Lang |
— | 948–960 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Gao Conghui | 920–960 (aged 40) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Gao Baoxu Template:Lang |
— | 960–962 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Gao Conghui, effective ruler during the reign of his brother | 924–962 (aged 38) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Gao Jichong Template:Lang |
— | 962–963 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Gao Baorong | 943–973 (aged 30) Surrendered to the Song but sparedTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal Name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Meng Zhixiang Template:Lang |
Gaozu Template:Lang |
934 (less than a year) |
Later Tang governor from 926, proclaimed King in 933 and later Emperor in 93 | 874–934 (aged 60) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Meng Chang Template:Lang |
— | 934–965 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Meng Zhixiang | 919–965 (aged 60) Defeated by the Song dynasty, died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal Name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Li Bian Template:Lang |
Liezu Template:Lang |
937–943 (Template:Age in years years) |
Adopted son of Xu Wen, proclaimed himself Emperor after overthrowing the Yang Wu | 888–943 (aged 55) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Jing Template:Lang |
Yuanzong Template:Lang |
943–961 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Li Bian | 888–943 (aged 55) Conquered Min and Chu, but failed to ward the attacks of Later Zhou. A distinguished poet, he died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Li Yu Template:Lang |
— | 961–976 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Li Jing | 937–978 (aged 41) A master of the ci poetry, he surrendered to the Song dynasty but was sparedTemplate:Sfnm |
Personal Name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Liu Chong Template:Lang |
Shizu Template:Lang |
951–954 (Template:Age in years years) |
Cousin of Liu Zhiyuan of Later Tang, proclaimed himself Emperor | 895–954 (aged 59) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Liu Jun Template:Lang |
Ruizong Template:Lang |
954–968 (Template:Age in years years) |
Son of Liu Chong | 926–968 (aged 42) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfn |
Liu Ji'en Template:Lang |
– | 968 (less than a year) |
Adopted son of Liu Jun | 935–968 (aged 33) Killed by Hou BarongTemplate:Sfnm |
Liu Jiyuan Template:Lang |
Yingwu Template:Lang |
968–979 (Template:Age in years years) |
Adopted son of Liu Jun | 956–991 (aged 35) Surrendered to the Song and sparedTemplate:Sfnm |
Late imperial China
[edit]Song dynasty (960–1279)
[edit]Template:Main list Template:Further
Portrait | Temple name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Northern Song (960–1127)[edit] | |||||
File:Song Taizu.jpg | Taizu Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Kuangyin Template:Lang |
4 February 960 – 14 November 976 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Proclaimed emperor after deposing Chai Zongxun of Later Zhou. Unified most of China under his rule | 21 March 927 – 14 November 976 (aged 49) Significantly reduced the power of the military in favor of civilian officers. Died in uncertain circumstances, probably illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Emperor Taizong of Song.tif | Taizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Jiong Template:Lang |
14 November 976 – 8 May 997 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Younger brother of Taizu | 20 November 939 – 8 May 997 (aged 57) Conquered the last remaining Chinese state in 978, but failed the reconquer former Tang territories, like Vietnam. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Portrait assis de l'empereur Song Zhenzong.jpg | Zhenzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Heng Template:Lang |
8 May 997 – 23 March 1022 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Taizong | 23 December 968 – 23 March 1022 (aged 53) Suffered significant defeats to the northern Liao dynasty, leading to the Chanyuan Treaty. Died after a prolonged period of illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Song Renzong.jpg | Renzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Zhen Template:Lang |
23 March 1022 – 30 April 1063 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhenzong | 30 May 1010 – 30 April 1063 (aged 52) Ruled under the regency of Empress Liu until 1033. His long reign, the longest of the Song dynasty, saw several developments in culture, philosophy and artsTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Song Yingzong 1.jpg | Yingzong Template:Lang |
Zhao Shu Template:Lang |
1 May 1063 – 25 January 1067 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhao Yunrang, a grandson of Emperor Taizong, and adopted son of Emperor Renzong | 16 February 1032 – 25 January 1067 (aged 34) Ruled initially under the regency of Empress Dowager Cao. Died after several years of illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Shenzong.jpg | Shenzong Template:Lang |
Zhao Xu Template:Lang |
25 January 1067 – 1 April 1085 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Yingzong | 25 May 1048 – 1 April 1085 (aged 36) Best known by the implementation of the "New Policies". Died of illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Zhezong.jpg | Zhezong Template:Lang |
Zhao Xu Template:Lang |
1 April 1085 – 23 February 1100 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shenzong | 4 January 1077 – 23 February 1100 (aged 23) Ruled under the regency of Empress Dowager Gao until 1093. Died of illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Seated Portrait of Emperor Song Huizong.tif | Huizong Template:Lang |
Zhao Ji Template:Lang |
23 February 1100 – 18 January 1126 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shenzong | 7 June 1082 – 4 June 1135 (aged 52) A remarkable patron of the arts and an artist himself, but a weak ruler and politician. Abdicated during the Jurchen Jin siege of Kaifeng. Captured by the Jin shortly after; died in captivityTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Songqinzong Chinghong.jpg | Qinzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Huan Template:Lang |
19 January 1126 – 25 March 1127 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Huizong | 23 May 1100 – 14 June 1161 (aged 62) Refused to negotiate with the Jin, which led to a second invasion. Captured alongside his father during the Jingkang incident; died in captivityTemplate:Sfnm |
Southern Song (1127–1279)[edit] | |||||
File:Song Gaozong.png | Gaozong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Gou Template:Lang |
12 June 1127 – 24 July 1162 (Template:Age in years, months and days)Template:Efn Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Huizong, proclaimed emperor in Jiankang after fleeing the Jurchen invasion of the North | 12 June 1107 – 9 November 1187 (aged 80) A competent ruler that managed to preserve the Song dynasty, but often criticized for his military defeats and political failures. Abdicated in favor of his adopted son, later dying of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
None, known by his personal name | Zhao Fu Template:Lang |
March – April 1129 (1 month or less) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Gaozong, proclaimed emperor during a mutiny | An infant installed by officers Miao Fu and Liu Zhengyan. They lost power within a monthTemplate:Sfnm | |
File:Xiaozong.jpg | Xiaozong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao ShenTemplate:Efn Template:Lang |
24 July 1162 – 18 February 1189 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhao Zicheng, a descendant of the first Song Emperor, and adopted son of Gaozong | 27 November 1127 – 28 June 1194 (aged 66) Often regarded as the most peaceful and stable ruler of the Southern Song. Abdicated in favour of his son, later dying of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Guangzong.jpg | Guangzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Dun Template:Lang |
18 February 1189 – 24 July 1194 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xiaozong | 30 September 1147 – 17 September 1200 (aged 53) Forced to abdicate in favor of his son, allegedly because of his mental instability. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Song Ningzong 1.png | Ningzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Kuo Template:Lang |
24 July 1194 – 17 September 1224 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Guangzong | 19 November 1168 – 17 September 1224 (aged 55) A weak and indecisive ruler who spent most of his life in isolation at the palace. Died of illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Song Lizong.jpg | Lizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Yun Template:Lang |
17 September 1224 – 16 November 1264 (Template:Age in years, months and days) |
Son of Zhao Xilu, a descendant of the first Song Emperor, Taizu | 26 January 1205 – 16 November 1264 (aged 59) An emperor devoted to philosophy and the arts, he had to face the first Mongol incursions following the fall of the Jin. Died of illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Duzong.jpg | Duzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Qi Template:Lang |
16 November 1264 – 12 August 1274 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Zhao Yurui, a brother of Lizong | 2 May 1240 – 12 August 1274 (aged 34) Relegated most imperial duties to his officers. Died of sudden illnessTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Song Gongdi2.jpg | Gongzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Xian Template:Lang |
12 August 1274 – 21 February 1276 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Duzong | 2 November 1270 – 1323
Ruled under the regency of Empress Xie, who was forced to surrender to the Mongols. Became a monk in Tibet, but was later executed of forced to commit suicide; died in GansuTemplate:Sfnm |
File:ZhaoShiDuanzong.png | Duanzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Zhao Shi Template:Lang |
14 June 1276 – 8 May 1278 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Duzong, proclaimed emperor in Fuzhou after the fall of the capital | 1268 – 8 May 1278 (aged 10) Spent most of his life fleeing from the Mongols by sea. Died of illness after barely surviving the sinking of his shipTemplate:Sfnm |
File:Song Modi.jpg | None, known by his personal name | Zhao Bing Template:Lang |
10 May 1278 – 19 March 1279 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Duzong | 1271 – 19 March 1279 (aged 8) Thrown into the Xi River during the Battle of Yamen alongside several soldiers and officers as part of a mass suicideTemplate:Sfnm |
Northern regimes (916–1234)
[edit]Liao dynasty (916–1125)
[edit]Template:Main list Template:Further
Western Xia (1038–1227)
[edit]Jin dynasty (1115–1234)
[edit]Temple name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
---|---|---|---|---|
Taizu Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Wanyan Min Template:Lang |
28 January 1115 – 19 September 1123 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Helibo from the Wanyan tribe | 1 August 1068 – 19 September 1123 (aged Template:Age in years) Conquered the Liao dynastyTemplate:Sfnm |
Taizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Wanyan Sheng Template:Lang |
27 September 1123 – 7 February 1135 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Brother of Taizu | 1075 – 7 February 1135 (aged Template:Age in years) Sacked the North Song dynasty's capital. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Xizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Wanyan Dan Template:Lang |
8 February 1135 – 9 January 1150 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Taizu | 1119 – 9 January 1150 (aged Template:Age in years) Assassinated by his chancellor and successor Wanyan LiangTemplate:Sfnm |
None, informally known as Prince of Hailing Template:Lang |
Wanyan Liang Template:Lang |
9 January 1150 – 15 December 1161 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Taizu | 1122 – 15 December 1161 (aged Template:Age in years) Assassinated by his military commanders after losing the Battle of CaishiTemplate:Sfnm |
Shizong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Wanyan Yong Template:Lang |
27 October 1161 – 20 January 1189 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Taizu | 1123 – 20 January 1189 (aged Template:Age in years) Had the longest and most stable reign of the dynastyTemplate:Sfnm |
Zhangzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Wanyan Jing Template:Lang |
20 January 1189 – 29 December 1208 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Shizong | 31 August 1168 – 29 December 1208 (aged Template:Age in years) Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
None, informally known as Prince Shao of Wei Template:Lang |
Wanyan Yongji Template:Lang |
29 December 1208 – 11 September 1213 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Shizong | ? – 11 September 1213Template:Efn (aged ?) Assassinated under the orders of the general Template:IllTemplate:Sfnm |
Xuanzong Template:Lang Template:Collapsible list |
Wanyan Xun Template:Lang |
22 September 1213 – 14 January 1224 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Grandson of Shizong | 1163 – 14 January 1224 (aged Template:Age in years) Suffered heavy losses from the Mongols. Died of natural causesTemplate:Sfnm |
Aizong Template:Lang |
Wanyan Shouxu Template:Lang |
15 January 1224 – 8 February 1234 (Template:Age in years, months and days) Template:Collapsible list |
Son of Xuanzong | 25 September 1198 – 9 February 1234 (aged Template:Age in years) Committed suicide amid Mongol invasionsTemplate:Sfnm |
Mo Template:Lang |
Wanyan Chenglin Template:Lang |
9 February 1234 (less than a day) |
Descendant of Helibo | ? – 9 February 1234 (aged ?) The shortest reigning Chinese monarch, ruled for less than a day. Died during the Mongol conquest of the JinTemplate:Sfnm |
Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)
[edit]Template:Main list Template:Further
Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
[edit]Template:Main list Template:Further
Qing dynasty (1644–1912)
[edit]Template:Main list Template:Further
References
[edit]Notes
[edit]Citations
[edit]Sources
[edit]- Ancient Era
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- Early Imperial Era
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Template:Refend Six Dynasties & Mid Imperial Era Template:Refbegin
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- Late Imperial Era
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- Template:Cite Cambridge History of China
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- Template:Cite Cambridge History of China
- Template:Cite Cambridge History of China
- Template:Cite Cambridge History of China
- Template:Cite Cambridge History of China
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- Template:Cite book
- Template:Cite book
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- Template:Cite book
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- Template:Cite book
- Template:Cite book
- Template:Cite book
- Template:Cite book
- Template:Cite journal
- Template:Cite book