Who was China's only official female emperor Taizong Wendi Wu Zhao Wu Daozi

Wu Zhao, also known as Empress Wu Zetian, is the only officially recognized female emperor in Chinese history. She rose to power during the Tang Dynasty and ruled from 690 to 705 AD. Initially, she was a concubine of Emperor Taizong and later became the wife of his successor, Emperor Gaozong. Wu's reign marked unique political and cultural advancements, and she was known for promoting meritocracy, enhancing the civil service examination system, and supporting Buddhism. Beyond her controversial rise to power, Wu Zhao's rule serves as an example of the influence a woman could wield in a male-dominated society. Her reign led to both progressive policies and ruthless political maneuvers, as she was known for eliminating rivals. Many historians view her as a trailblazer who broke gender norms of her time, leaving a complex legacy of both admiration and criticism.