Empress wu zhou biography

The only woman in more than three millennia to rule China in her own right, Wu Zetian (624-705) was also one of the most controversial monarchs in Chinese history.

Renowned for her beauty, political acumen and tenacity, she was also manipulative, ruthless and outright murderous.

Her ascendancy and reign were steeped in blood and terror, yet she remained overwhelmingly popular.

Empress Wu was without a doubt an extraordinary leader and woman – one who took every rule book and tore it to shreds.

Here are 10 facts about the legendary ruler.

1. She started out as an imperial concubine

Wu Zetian was born into a rich family. Her father Wu Shiyue made sure that she was well-educated – a trait that was uncommon among women. She was encouraged to read and learn about governmental affairs, writing, literature and music.

At age 14, she was taken in to be an imperial concubine to Emperor Taizong (5