Empress Wei was an empress consort of the Chinese Tang dynasty. She was the second wife of Emperor Zhongzong, who reigned twice, and during his second reign, she tried to emulate the example of her mother-in-law Wu Zetian and seize power. She was de facto in charge of the governmental affairs during her husband's reign, though she was not formally regent. Emperor Zhongzong's death in 710 β a death traditionally believed to be a poisoning she carried out together with her daughter Li Guo'er the Princess Anle β made her the empress dowager, and she took formal power as regent de jure during the minority of Emperor Shang of Tang. After a reign of seventeen days as regent, she was overthrown and killed in a coup led by Emperor Zhongzong's nephew Li Longji and Emperor Zhongzong's sister Princess Taiping.
Wei, empress of the Tang dynasty
On July 21, in the year 710, Wei, empress of the Tang dynasty. This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of July 21, one of 430 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Empress Wei (Tang dynasty). Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on July 21, 710 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 10 June 2026.
On This Date in History 430
This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
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