Meet Emperor Taizong Li Shimin, A Brilliant Leader
Taizong Li Shimin (598 - 649) , the second emperor of the Tang Dynasty , is a brilliant politician, strategist, militarist, and poet. He served under his father, Li Yuan, as a general at a young age and gained prestige among soldiers and people. Later, he was made Qin Wang (Lord of the Qin State) for his extraordinary contributions during the founding of the Tang Dynasty. In 626 , Li Shimin staged a coup in Xuanwu Gate, killing the crown princess Li Jiancheng and other princes against him. He also forced his father, Li Yuan, the Gaozu Emperor, to abdicate. In the same year, Li Shimin established himself the Emperor Taizong and began his reign. He proved himself an outstanding emperor, creating a golden age of the Reign of Zhenguan. He was so successful that people forgave his crime of murdering brothers. On July 10, 649, Taizong passed away and was buried in Zhaoling Mausoleum . Tang Taizong Basics of Emperor Taizong’s Life Name : Li Shimin Title : Emperor Taizong of the Tang D...