• Only woman to rule China in her own right
• Reigned during the Tang Dynasty
• Known for her intelligence and political acumen
• Expanded China's territory and strengthened the central government
• Patron of the arts and literature
Empress Lü Zhi (180-195 BC)
• Consort of Emperor Gaozu of the Han Dynasty
• Became empress dowager after her husband's death
• Controlled the government as regent for her son
• Known for her ruthlessness and cruelty
• Purged her political rivals and opponents
• Contributed to the decline of the Han Dynasty
Empress Wang Zhen (1279-1330)
• Consort of Emperor Renzong of the Yuan Dynasty
• Became empress dowager after her husband's death
• Ruled as regent for her son and grandson
• Known for her piety and devotion to Buddhism
• Promoted peace and stability in the empire
• Encouraged the development of art and culture
Empress Cixi (1835-1908)
• Consort of Emperor Xianfeng of the Qing Dynasty
• Became empress dowager after her husband's death
• Ruled as regent for her son and nephew
• Known for her political power and influence
• Promoted modernization and reform in China
• Resisted foreign influence and encroachment
• Played a significant role in China's history