Wu Zetian and Lü Pheasant are both extremely important female political figures in Chinese history, and they have shown their talents and skills in different historical periods. Here's a comparison of these two female leaders:
1. Reign:
Lü Pheasant: She was the empress of Liu Bang, the founding emperor of the Western Han Dynasty, and after Liu Bang's death, she became the de facto ruler of the Western Han Dynasty, ruling the dynasty and ruling for ten years (195 BC to 180 BC).
Wu Zetian: She was a female emperor of the Tang Dynasty, she began to participate in political affairs during the reign of Tang Gaozong Li Zhi, and later during the reign of Tang Zhongzong Li Xian and Tang Ruizong Li Dan, she first became a regent, and finally established herself as emperor in 690 AD, established Wu Zhou, and ruled China for fifteen years (690 to 705 AD).
2. Political Skills:
Lü Pheasant: Known for her iron fist, she consolidated her power through political marriages and the killing of people who threatened her position, such as Madame Qi. She also introduced a series of policies to strengthen the centralization of power.
Wu Zetian: Also known for her decisive political skills, she weakened the aristocracy and promoted and reused many talented officials, including some famous literati. She also implemented a series of reforms, such as reforming the imperial examination system, to promote social and economic development.
3. Cultural and Religious Policy:
Lü Pheasant: In terms of cultural and religious policies, Lü Pheasant continued the traditions of the Han Dynasty, advocating Confucianism, while also supporting Taoism and Buddhism.
Wu Zetian: She advocated Buddhism and built many temples and Buddha statues, and Buddhism developed greatly under her rule. She also supported the literary arts, attracting many literati bachelors.
4. Historical Evaluation:
Lü Pheasant: Historically, there have been mixed reviews of Lü Pheasant, with some praising her political prowess and the stability she brought to the country, while others have criticized her scheming and pursuit of power.
Wu Zetian: Her reign has likewise drawn mixed reviews, with some historians arguing that she was one of the most prominent female leaders in Chinese history, while others criticizing her tyranny and authoritarianism.
5. Impact of Women's Status:
Lü Pheasant and Wu Zetian were both important figures in Chinese history as symbols of female power, and their reigns challenged traditional gender roles and provided role models for later female leaders.
Overall, Lü Pheasant and Wu Zetian are both outstanding female politicians in Chinese history, who have shown their talents and skills in different historical periods, and have had a profound impact on Chinese politics, culture, and society.