From a low-ranking concubine to the only woman in Chinese history to officially hold the title of Huangdi (Emperor), Wu Zetian’s reign was unprecedented,. In this episode of pplpod, we explore the life of the woman who interrupted the Tang dynasty to establish her own Wu Zhou dynasty.

We dive into the complex legacy of a ruler who is viewed by history as both a brilliant administrator and a ruthless usurper,.

Topics covered in this episode:

• A Ruthless Rise: How Wu transformed from a concubine of Emperor Taizong to the wife of his son, Emperor Gaozong, systematically eliminating rivals like Empress Wang and Consort Xiao,. We examine the infamous allegation that she killed her own infant daughter to frame the Empress,.

• The "Two Saints": Her years governing behin ...