#历史开讲 #
You may know Li Shimin as Emperor Taizong of Tang, the second emperor of the Tang Dynasty and one of the greatest monarchs in Chinese history. He unified China, ushered in the rule of Zhenguan, expanded his territory, and promoted cultural and economic prosperity. But do you know what kind of hardships and challenges he went through before he ascended the throne? Do you know how many wives and children he has? Do you know how he died? If you are interested in these questions, please read on.
Li Shimin was born in 598, Li Yuan's second son. Li Yuan was a general of the Sui Dynasty who later launched the Xuanwu Gate Rebellion, overthrew the Sui Emperor and established the Tang Dynasty. Li Shimin showed extraordinary talent and courage from a young age, and he participated in many battles to help his father pacify the world. He was also charismatic and skillful, winning the support of many generals and soldiers. His elder brother Li Jiancheng was crown prince, but they were not at peace with each other, often competing for power and his father's favor. Li Shimin also has a younger brother named Li Yuanji, who is not to be outdone and wants to fight for his status.
One day in 626, Li Jiancheng and Li Yuanji conspired to kill Li Shimin and then usurp the throne. They agreed to wait outside the Xuanwu Gate for Li Shimin to come out and then ambush him. But their plan was leaked by Li Shimin's henchman Ma Zhou. Ma Zhou told Li Shimin and persuaded him to run away. Li Shimin did not expect that his own brother would be so cruel, he was very sad, but he did not have time to hesitate. He immediately mounted his horse and rushed towards Xuanwu Gate with a few of his cronies. He wanted to see his father, tell him the truth, and ask for his protection.
When Li Shimin arrived at Xuanwu Gate, he found that his brother and younger brother were already waiting for him there. When they saw Li Shimin coming, they immediately ordered to shoot arrows. But Li Shimin's horse was quick and dodged the rain of arrows. Li Shimin rushed into the palace gate and ran towards his father's dormitory. He encountered many enemies along the way, but they were all defeated by him one by one. Finally, he came to his father, knelt down and cried out his grievances. The father was angry and reproached his brother and younger brother for being unfilial and unrighteous. He ordered them to be executed and made Li Shimin crown prince.
This is the process of the change of Xuanwu Gate, and it is also the key event of Tang Taizong's accession to the throne. Although this change was tragic, it also showed Li Shimin's heroism and political wisdom. He not only dared to face danger, but was also able to stop fraternal disputes in time and stabilize the situation. He also won the trust of his father and the support of the people, laying a solid foundation for his throne.
After becoming emperor, Li Shimin did not become complacent, but worked hard and loved the people, recruited talents, reformed the legal system, strengthened the army, and carried out friendly exchanges with foreign countries. His reign, known as the Reign of Zhenguan, was one of the most glorious periods in Chinese history. His exploits were praised by posterity and he was revered as the "Emperor of the Ages".
In addition to being an outstanding politician and military strategist, Li Shimin was also a cultural man. He enjoyed reading and writing poetry and was interested in both Buddhism and Taoism. He was also an amorous man who had many wives and children, the most famous of which were Empress Changsun and Li Zhi. Empress Changsun was Li Shimin's cousin and his favorite wife. She is beautiful and intelligent, virtuous and virtuous, and with Li Shimin and Li Shimin, she governs the country together. She was also the first woman of the Tang Dynasty to be canonized as empress. Li Zhi was Li Shimin's ninth son and his heir. He inherited his father's talent and grace and was also a wise king. He married Wu Zetian and was later deposed by her.
Li Shimin reigned for 23 years at the age of 65. He died in 649 from a stroke. Before his death, he passed the throne to Li Zhi and instructed him to be filial to his mother, Empress Changsun, to love the people, and to continue to develop the prosperity and strength of the Tang Dynasty. He was buried in Zhaoling and was buried with Empress Changsun.
This is Li Shimin's life, a life full of legends and glory. He is one of the most admirable and admirable figures in Chinese history. If you want to know more about his story and anecdotes, please follow our blog and leave your comments and suggestions.