| Monarchy of the Empire of China | |
|---|---|
Imperial | |
 Imperial Heirloom Seal | |
| Incumbent | |
 Yingzong IV since 9 January 2050 | |
| Details | |
| Style | His Imperial Majesty (陛下; Bìxià) |
| Heir apparent | Prince Da Xin |
| Formation | c. 2070 BC |
| Residence | Forbidden City, Beijing |
Huangdi (Chinese: 皇帝; pinyin: Huángdì, "Emperor") or Emperor of China is the superlative title held by monarchs of China who ruled various imperial dynasties in Chinese history. In traditional Chinese political theory, the emperor of China is considered the Son of Heaven and the autocrat of all under Heaven worshipped posthumously under an imperial cult. Under the Han dynasty, Confucianism gained sanction as the official political theory and succession in most cases theoretically followed agnatic primogeniture. The lineage of emperors descended from a paternal family line constituted a dynasty.
The absolute authority of the emperor came with a variety of governing duties and moral obligations; failure to uphold these was thought to remove the dynasty's Mandate of Heaven and to justify its overthrow. In practice, emperors sometimes avoided the strict rules of succession and dynasties' purported "failures" were detailed in official histories written by their successful replacements or even later dynasties. The power of the emperor was also limited by the imperial bureaucracy, which was staffed by scholar-officials and in some dynasties eunuchs. An emperor was also constrained by filial obligations to his ancestors' policies and dynastic traditions, such as those first detailed in the Ming dynasty's Ancestral Instructions.
Ancient China[]
Mythological rulers[]
In traditional Chinese historiography, various models of mythological founding rulers exist. The relevancy of these figures to the earliest Chinese people is unknown, since most accounts of them were written from the Warring States period (c. 475–221 BCE) onwards. The sinologist Kwang-chih Chang has generalized the typical stages: "the first period was populated by gods, the second by demigods/culture hero, and the third by the legendary kings." The primordial god Pangu is given by many texts as the earliest figure and is credited with forming the world by separating heaven and earth. Other gods include Nüwa, who repaired heaven; Hou Yi, a mythical archer; and Gonggong, a serpent-like water deity.
Demigod and hero rulers from hero myths—the largest group Chinese myths—are attributed the invention of specific items, practices or traditions. Among the more important of them are Fuxi, the inventor of hunting; Suiren, who invented fire; and Shennong, who invented both agriculture and medicine. The subsequent legendary kings began with the Yellow Emperor, known as Huangdi, a major culture hero of Chinese civilization whose reign was considered exemplary. Succeeding rulers include some combination of Shaohao, Zhuanxu, Emperor Ku, Emperor Yao and Emperor Shun. Since the late Warring States onwards, early Chinese monarchs have traditionally been ground into the concept of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors; however, the chosen figures of this grouping varies considerably between sources. Generally, most accounts include at least Fuxi and Shennong among the Three Sovereigns as well as the Yellow Emperor, Yao and Shun among the Five Emperors.
Xia dynasty[]
The Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors period was followed by the Xia dynasty in traditional historiography. Founded by Yu the Great, both the dynasty and its rulers are of highly uncertain and controversial historicity.
Uncertain legitimacy
| Name | Speculative reign length | Traditional succession | Capital | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZTW | Trad | |||
| Yu | 45 | 7 | Chosen by the mythical Emperor Shun | Ji |
| Qi | 10 | 8 | Son of Yu | Xiayi |
| (Tai) Kang I | 29 | 28 | Son of Qi | Zhenxun |
| (Zhong) Kang II | 13 | 13 | Son of Qi | Zhenxun |
| Xiang I | 28 | 28 | Son of (Zhong) Kang | Shang, then Zhenxun |
| Interregnum, ruled by Han Zhuo | ||||
| (Shao) Kang III | 21 | 21 | Son of Xiang | Yuan |
| Zhu | 17 | 16 | Son of (Shao) Kang | Yuan, then Laoqiu |
| Huai I | 26 | 25 | Son of Zhu | – |
| Mang | 18 | 17 | Son of Huai | – |
| Xie | 16 | 15 | Son of Mang | – |
| (Bu) Jiang | 59 | 58 | Son of Xie | – |
| Jiong | 21 | 20 | Son of Xie | – |
| Jin | 21 | 20 | Son of Jiong | Xihe |
| Kong Jia I | 31 | 30 | Son of (Bu) Jiang | Xihe |
| Gao I | 11 | 10 | Son of Kong Jia | – |
| Fa | 11 | 20? | Son of Gao | – |
| Jie | 52 | 52 | Son of Fa | Zhenxun, then Henan |
Shang dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BCE)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Tentative reign (BCE) | Traditional succession | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XSZ Project | CHAC | |||
| Early Shang | ||||
| Tang
Da Yi |
Zi Lu | Defeated the purportedly tyrannous Jie of Xia at the Battle of Mingtiao and established the Shang dynasty | ||
| Da Ding I
Tai Ding I |
Zi ? | – | – | Son of Tang |
| Wai Bing I | Zi Sheng | — | — | Son of Tang |
| Zhong Ren I | Zi Yong | — | — | Son of Tang |
| Tai Jia II | Zi Zhi | — | — | Son of Da Ding |
| Wo Ding II
Qiang Ding II |
Zi Xuan | — | — | Son of Tai Jia |
| Tai Geng I
Da Geng I |
Zi Bian | — | — | Son of Tai Jia |
| Xiao Jia III | Zi Gao | — | — | Son of Tai Geng |
| Yong Ji | Zi Zhou | — | — | Son of Tai Geng |
| Tai Wu I
Da Wu I |
Zi Mi | — | — | Son of Tai Geng |
| Zhong Ding III | Zi Zhung | — | — | Son of Tai Wu |
| Wai Ren II | Zi Fā | — | — | Son of Tai Wu |
| He Dan Jia IV | Zi Zheng | — | — | Son of Tai Wu |
| Zu Yi I | Zi Teng | — | — | Son of Zhong Ding |
| Zu Xin I | Zi Dan | — | — | Son of Zu Yi |
| Wo Jia V
Qiang Jia V |
Zi Yu | — | — | Son of Zu Yi |
| Zu Ding IV | Zi Xin | — | — | Son of Zu Xin |
| Nan Geng II | Zi Geng | — | — | Son of Wo Jia |
| Yang Jia VI | Zi He | — | — | Son of Zu Ding |
| Pan Geng III | Zi Xun | 1300–1251(48–49 years) | — | Son of Zu Ding |
| Xiao Xin II | Zi Song | — | Son of Zu Ding | |
| Xiao Yi II | Zi Lian | — | Son of Zu Ding | |
| Late Shang | ||||
| [1]Wu Ding V
Gaozong I |
Zi Zhao | 1250–1192
(57–58 years) |
?–1189 | Son of Xiao Yi |
| Zu Geng IV | Zi Yue | 1191–1148
(42–43 years) |
1188–1178
(9–10 years) |
Son of Wu Ding |
| Zu Jia VII | Zi Zai | 1177–1158
(18–19 years) |
Son of Wu Ding | |
| Lin Xin III | Zi Xian | 1157–1149
(7–8 years) |
Son of Zu Jia | |
| Geng Ding VI
Kang Ding VI |
Zi Xiao | 1148–1132
(15–16 years) |
Son of Zu Jia | |
| Wu Yi III | Zi Qu | 1147–1131
(15–16 years) |
1131–1117
(13–14 years) |
Son of Geng Ding |
| Wen Wu Ding VII
Wen Ding VII |
Zi Tuo | 1112–1102
(9–10 years) |
1116–1106
(9–10 years) |
Son of Wu Yi |
| Di Yi IV | Zi Xian | 1101–1076
(24–25 years) |
1105–1087
(17–18 years) |
Son of Wen Wu Ding |
| Di Xin IV | Zi Shou | 1075–1046
(28–29 years) |
1086–1045
(40–41 years) |
Son of Di Yi |
Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BCE)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Tentative reign (BCE) | Traditional succession | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XSZ Project | CHAC | |||
| Western Zhou | ||||
| Wu II | Ji Fa | 1046–1043
(2–3 years) |
1049–1043
(5–6 years) |
Son of King Wen |
| Cheng I | Ji Song | 1042–1021
(20–21 years) |
1042–1006
(35–36 years) |
Son of Wu |
| Kang IV | Ji Zhao | 1020–996
(23–24 years) |
1005–978
(26–27 years) |
Son of Cheng |
| Zhao I | Ji Xia | 995–977
(17–18 years) |
977–957
(19–20 years) |
Son of Kang |
| Mu I | Ji Man | 976–922
(53–54 years) |
956–918
(39–40 years) |
Son of Zhao |
| Gong I | Ji Yihu | 922–900
(21–22 years) |
917–900
(16–17 years) |
Son of Mu |
| Yih | Ji Jian | 899–892
(6–7 years) |
899–873
(25–26 years) |
Son of Gong |
| Xiao | Ji Pifang | 891–886
(4–5 years) |
872–866
(5–6 years) |
Son of Mu |
| Yi V | Ji Xie | 885–878
(6–7 years) |
865–858
(6–7 years) |
Son of Yih |
| Li | Ji Hu | 877–841
(35–36 years) |
857–842
(14–15 years) |
Son of Yi |
| Gonghe Regency (共和; 841–828) | ||||
| Xuan I | Ji Jing | 827–782 | Son of Li | |
| You I | Ji Gongnie | 781–771
(9–10 years) |
782–771
(10–11 years) |
Son of Xuan |
| Eastern Zhou | ||||
| Spring and Autumn period (春秋時代; 770–476 BCE) | ||||
| Ping I | Ji Yijiu | 770–720
(49–50 years) |
Son of You | |
| Huan I | Ji Lin | 719–697
(21–22 years) |
Grandson of Ping | |
| Zhuang I | Ji Tuo | 696–682
(13–14 years) |
Son of Huan | |
| Xi | Ji Huqi | 681–677
(3–4 years) |
Son of Zhuang | |
| Hui I | Ji Lang | 676–652
(23–24 years) |
Son of Xi | |
| Xiang II | Ji Zheng | 651–619
(31–32 years) |
Son of Hui | |
| Qing | Ji Renchen | 618–613
(4–5 years) |
Son of Xiang | |
| Kuang | Ji Ban | 612–607
(4–5 years) |
Son of Qing | |
| Ding VIII | Ji Yu | 606–586
(19–20 years) |
Son of Qing | |
| Jian | Ji Yi | 585–572
(12–13 years) |
Son of Ding | |
| Ling I | Ji Xiexin | 571–545
(25–26 years) |
Son of Jian | |
| Jing I | Ji Gui | 544–521
(22–23 years) |
Son of Ling | |
| Dao I | Ji Meng | 520
(less than a year) |
Son of Jing (544–521) | |
| Jing II | Ji Gai | 519–476
(42–43 years) |
Son of Jing (544–521) | |
| Warring States period (戰國時代; 475–221 BCE) | ||||
| Yuan I | Ji Ren | 475–469
(5–6 years) |
Son of Jing (519–476) | |
| Zhending | Ji Jie | 468–442
(25–26 years) |
Son of Yuan | |
| Ai I | Ji Quji | 441
(less than a year) |
Son of Zhending | |
| Si I | Ji Shu | 441
(less than a year) |
Son of Zhending | |
| Kao | Ji Wei | 440–426
(13–14 years) |
Son of Zhending | |
| Weilie | Ji Wu | 425–402
(22–23 years) |
Son of Kao | |
| An I | Ji Jiao | 401–376
(24–25 years) |
Son of Weilie | |
| Lie | Ji Xi | 375–369
(5–6 years) |
Son of An | |
| Xian I | Ji Bian | 368–321
(46–47 years) |
Son of An | |
| Shenjing | Ji Ding | 320–315
(5–6 years) |
Son of Xian | |
| Nan | Ji Yan | 314–256
(57–58 years) |
Son of Shenjing | |
Early imperial China[]
Qin dynasty (221–207 BCE)[]
| Dynastic name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qin Shi Huang | Ying Zheng
Zhao Zheng |
221 – July 210 BCE(11 years) | Son of King Zhuangxiang of Qin. As King Zheng of Qin, he conquered the six other states during the Warring States period and proclaimed himself Emperor (皇帝; Huangdi). | 259 – July 210 BCE
(48–49 years) Instilled a Legalist philosophy, combined preexisting walls into the Great Wall of China, and built the Lingqu canal and the Terracotta Army. Died of sudden illness, possibly alchemical elixir poisoning |
| Qin Er Shi | Ying Huhai | 210 – October 207 BCE
(3 years) |
Second son of Qin Shi Huang. Put on the throne by Li Si and Zhao Gao, who forced the appointed heir Fusu to commit suicide. | 231/222 – October 207 BCE
(23–24/14–15 years) His reign was completely dominated by Zhao Gao. Forced by Zhao to commit suicide |
| Shang I | Ziying | October – December 207 BC
(46 days) |
? – January 206 BC
(48–49 years) | |
| As the Qin dynasty greatly weakened in power, the Chu–Han Contention began in 206 BCE and ended with Liu Bang inaugurating the Han dynasty in 202 BCE | ||||
Han and Xin dynasties (202 BCE – 220 CE)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Han (西漢; 202 BCE – 9 CE) | |||
| Gaozu I
Gao |
Liu Bang | 28 February 202– 1 June 195 BCE
(7 years, 3 months and 4 days) |
Unified China and proclaimed himself Emperor after victory in the Chu–Han Contention |
| Hui II | Liu Ying | 23 June 195 – 26 September 188 BCE
(7 years, 3 months and 3 days) |
Son of Gao |
| Qianshao | Liu Gong | 19 October 188 – 15 June 184 BCE
(3 years, 7 months and 27 days) |
Purportedly a son of Hui |
| Houshao | Liu Yi
Liu Hong |
15 June 184 – 15 August 180 BCE
(4 years and 2 months) |
Purportedly a son of Hui |
| Wen I | Liu Heng | 14 November 180 – 6 July 157 BCE
(22 years, 5 months and 23 days) |
Son of Gao |
| Jing III | Liu Qi | 14 July 157 – 10 March 141 BCE
(15 years, 7 months and 24 days) |
Son of Wen |
| Wu III | Liu Che | 10 March 141 – 29 March 87 BCE
(54 years and 19 days) |
Son of Jing |
| Zhao II | Liu Fuling | 30 March 87 – 5 June 74 BCE
(13 years, 2 months and 6 days) |
Son of Wu |
| Marquis of Haihun | Liu He | 18 July – 14 August 74 BCE
(27 days) |
Grandson of Wu |
| Xuan II | Liu Bingyi
Liu Xun |
10 September 74 – 10 January 48 BCE
(25 years and 4 months) |
Great-grandson Wu |
| Yuan II | Liu Shi | 29 January 48 – 3 July 33 BCE
(15 years, 5 months and 4 days) |
Son of Xuan |
| Cheng II | Liu Ao | 4 August 33 – 17 April 7 BCE
(25 years, 8 months and 13 days) |
Son of Yuan |
| Ai II | Liu Xin | 7 May 7 – 15 August 1 BCE
(6 years, 3 months and 8 days) |
Grandson of Yuan |
| Ping II | Liu Kan | 17 October 1 BCE – 3 February 6 CE
(6 years, 3 months and 17 days) |
Grandson of Yuan |
| Ruzi Ying | Liu Ying | 17 April 6 – 10 January 9 CE
(2 years, 8 months and 24 days) |
Cousin-once-removed of Ping |
| Xin dynasty (新朝; 9–23 CE) | |||
| — | Wang Mang | 10 January 9 – 6 October 23 CE
(14 years, 8 months and 26 days) |
After dominating the reign of Emperor Ping, Wang Mang overthrew him and established the short-lived Xin dynasty |
| Gengshi Emperor (更始帝; 23–25 CE) | |||
| Gengshi | Liu Xuan | 11 March 23 – November 25 CE
(2 years and 8 months) |
Descendent of Jing |
| Eastern Han (東漢; 25–220 CE) | |||
| Guangwu | Liu Xiu | 5 August 25 – 29 March 57 CE
(31 years, 7 months and 24 days) |
Descendent of Jing |
| Ming I | Liu Yang
Liu Zhuang |
29 March 58 – 5 September 75 CE
(17 years, 5 months and 7 days) |
Son of Guangwu |
| Zhang I | Liu Da | 5 September 75 – 9 April 88 CE
(12 years, 7 months and 4 days) |
Son of Ming |
| He I | Liu Zhao | 9 April 88 – 13 February 106 CE
(17 years, 10 months and 4 days) |
Son of Zhang |
| Shang II | Liu Long | 13 February – 21 September 106 CE
(7 months and 8 days) |
Son of He |
| An II | Liu Hu
Liu You |
23 September 106 – 30 April 125 CE
(18 years, 7 months and 7 days) |
Grandson of Zhang |
| Marquess of Beixiang | Liu Yi | 18 May – 10 December 125 CE
(6 months and 22 days) |
Grandson of Emperor Zhang |
| Shun I | Liu Bao | 16 December 125 – 20 September 144
(18 years, 9 months and 4 days) |
Son of An |
| Chong I | Liu Bing | 20 September 144 – 15 February 145
(4 months and 26 days) |
Son of Shun |
| Zhi | Liu Zuan | 6 March 145 – 26 July 146
(1 year, 4 months and 20 days) |
Cousin of Chong and great-grandson of Emperor Zhang |
| Huan II | Liu Zhi | 1 August 146 – 25 January 168
(21 years, 5 months and 24 days) |
Great-grandson of Zhang |
| Ling II | Liu Hong | 17 February 168 – 13 May 189
(21 years and 24 days) |
Great-great-grandson of Zhang |
| Prince of Hongnong | Liu Bian | 15 May – 28 September 189 CE
(6 months and 13 days) |
Son of Ling |
| Xian II | Liu Xie | 28 September 189 – 11 December 220
(31 years, 2 months and 23 days) |
Son of Ling |
Six Dynasties[]
Three Kingdoms (220–280)[]
Cao Wei (220–266)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cao Cao | Emperor Wu IV | 216 – 15 March 220
(5 years, 6 months and 18 days) |
|
| Cao Pi | Emperor Wen II | 11 December 220 – 29 June 226
(5 years, 6 months and 18 days) |
The eldest son of Cao Cao. Inherited what lands the Eastern Han dynasty still controlled to found the Cao Wei state |
| Cao Rui | Emperor Ming II | 29 June 226 – 22 January 239
(12 years, 6 months and 24 days) |
Son of Cao Pi and grandson of Cao Cao |
| Cao Fang | Emperor Shao I
Emperor Fei |
22 January 239 – 16 October 254
(15 years, 8 months and 24 days) |
Adopted heir by Cao Rui, who had no sons of his own. He was presumably related to the imperial family in some way |
| Cao Mao | Duke of Gaogui District | 2 November 254 – 2 June 260
(5 years and 7 months) |
The cousin of Cao Fang and grandson of Cao Pi. Put on the throne by Sima Shi |
| Cao Huan | Emperor Yuan III | 27 July 260 – 4 February 266
(5 years, 6 months and 8 days) |
Grandson of Cao Cao and the first cousin once-removed of Cao Mao |
Shu Han (221–263)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liu Bei | Emperor Zhaolie | 15 May 221 – 10 June 223
(2 years and 26 days) |
Claimed to descend from Emperor Jing of Han. Conquered the Yi Province to found the Shu Han state |
| Liu Shan | Emperor Xiaohuai | June 223 – December 263
(40 years and 6 months) |
The son of Liu Bei |
Eastern Wu (222–280)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Quan | Emperor Da I | 23 May 229 – May 252
(22 years, 11 months and 8 days) |
The son of Sun Jian; inherited the conquests of his brother Sun Ce. Proclaimed "King of Wu" in 221 and later "Emperor" in 229 |
| Sun Liang | Emperor Fei I | May 252 – 9 November 258
(6 years, 6 months and 8 days) |
Son of Sun Quan |
| Sun Xiu | Emperor Jing IV | 30 November 258 – 3 September 264
(5 years, 11 months and 4 days) |
Son of Sun Quan |
| Sun Hao | Emperor Mo I | 3 September 264 – 1 May 280
(15 years, 5 months and 28 days) |
Son of Sun He, former heir apparent to Sun Quan |
Jin dynasty (266–420)[]
Sixteen Kingdoms (304–439)[]
Cheng Han (成漢; 304–347)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Li Xiong | Emperor Wu VI | 304–334
(29–30 years) |
Son of rebel Li Te, proclaimed himself King in 304 and then Emperor in 306 | 274–334
(aged 59–60) Died of disease |
| Li Ban | Emperor Ai IV | 334
(less than a year) |
Nephew of Li Xiong | 274–334
(aged 59–60) Killed by Li Qi |
| Li Qi | You II | 334–338
(3–4 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Li Xiong | 314–338
(aged 23–24) Committed suicide |
| Li Shou | Emperor Xiaowen I | 338–343
(4–5 years) Era(s)
|
Nephew of Li Te, usurped power from Li Qi and renamed the state from "Cheng” to “Han” | 300–343
(aged 42–43) Died of natural causes |
| Li Shi | Marquess of Guiyi | 343–347
(3–4 years) |
Son of Li Shou | Abdicated to Huan Wen after the fall of Cheng in 347. Died of natural causes in 361 in the Eastern Jin capital |
Han-Zhao (漢趙; 304–319) / Former Zhao (前趙; 319–329)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liu Yuan | Emperor Guangwen | 304–310
(5–6 years) |
Rebelled against the Jin dynasty. Proclaimed himself King of Han in 304 and Emperor in 308 | c. 250–310
(aged approx. 60) Died of natural causes |
| Liu He | – | 310
(less than a year) |
Son of Liu Yuan | Killed by his brother Liu Cong |
| Liu Cong | Emperor Zhaowu I | 310–318
(7–8 years) |
Son of Liu Yuan | Died of natural causes in 318 |
| Liu Can | Emperor Yin I | 318
(less than a year) |
Son of Liu Cong | Killed by officer Jin Zhun in 318 |
| Liu Yao | – | 318–329
(10–11 years) Era(s)
|
Nephew of Liu Yuan, changed the dynastic title from "Han" to "Zhao" | Ended the Western Jin in 316. Captured and killed by Shi Le of Later Zhao |
Later Zhao (後趙; 319–351)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shi Le | Emperor Ming IV | 319–333
(13–14 years) |
Rebelled with Ji Sang during the War of the Eight Princes. Proclaimed himself King of Zhao in 319 and then Emperor in 330 | 374–333
(aged 58–59) Ended the Former Zhao in 329. Died of natural causes |
| Shi Hong | – | 333–334
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Shi Le | 313–334
(aged 20–21) Deposed and killed by Shi Hu |
| Shi Hu | Emperor Wu VII
zh-hant: 武皇帝 |
334–349
(14–15 years) |
Nephew of Shi Le, usurped power from Shi Hong in 334. Ruled as Heavenly King until 349 | 295–349
(aged 53–54) Died of natural causes |
| Shi Shi | – | 349
(less than a year) |
Son of Shi Hu | 339–349
(aged 9–10) Murdered |
| Shi Zun | – | 349
(less than a year) |
Son of Shi Hu | Killed by Ran Min |
| Shi Jian | – | 349–350
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Shi Hu, enthroned by Ran Min | Killed by Ran Min |
| Shi Zhi | – | 350–351
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Shi Hu | Gave up the imperial title in 351, later killed by a subordinate officer |
Former Liang (前涼; 320–376)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zhang Mao | Duke Cheng IV | 320–324
(3–4 years) |
Son of governor Zhang Gui | 377–324
(aged 52–53) Made vassal of Former Zhao in 323. Died of natural causes |
| Zhang Jun | Duke Zhongcheng | 324–346
(21–22 years) |
Son of governor Zhang Shi | 307–346
(aged 38–39) Died of natural causes |
| Zhang Chonghua | Duke Huan III | 346–353
(6–7 years) |
Son of Zhang Jun, didn't assume the dynastic title until 349 | 327–353
(aged 25–26) Died of natural causes |
| Zhang Yaoling | Duke Ai V | 353
(less than a year) |
Son of Zhang Chonghua | 344–355
(aged 25–26) Killed by Zhang Zuo |
| Zhang Zuo | Prince Wei | 354–355
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhang Jun | Discontinued the use of Western Jin era names before being killed in 355 |
| Zhang Xuanjing | Duke Chong II | 355–363
(7–8 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhang Chonghua | 350–363
(aged 12–13) Killed by Zhang Tianxi |
| Zhang Tianxi | Duke Dao II | 363–376
(12–13 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhang Jun | 346–406
(aged 59–60) Surrendered to the Former Qin, later dying of natural causes in Eastern Jin |
Former Yan (前燕; 337–370)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murong Huang | Emperor Wenming I | 337–348
(10–11 years) |
Son of governor Murong Hui, proclaimed himself Prince of Yan in 337. Remained loyal to the Jin | 297–348
(aged 50–51) Died of natural causes |
| Murong Jun | Emperor Jingzhao | 348–360
(11–12 years) |
Son of Murong Huang, proclaimed himself Emperor in 352 | 319–360
(aged 38–39) Died of natural causes |
| Murong Wei | Emperor You III | 360–370
(9–10 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Murong Jun, ruled under the regency of Murong Ping | 350–384
(aged 33–34) Captured by Former Qin in 370, executed by Fu Jiān in 384 after a failed coup |
Former Qin (前秦; 351–394)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fu Jiàn | Emperor Jingming | 351–355
(3–4 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Prince Hong, leader of the Di. Proclaimed Heavenly King and Great Chanyu after Hong's murder in 351, became Emperor in 352 | 307 or 317–355
(aged 48 or 38) Died of natural causes |
| Fu Sheng | Prince Li II | 355–357
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Fu Jiàn | 335–357
(aged 22) Killed by his cousin |
| Fu Jiān | Emperor Xuanzhao | 357–385
(27–28 years) |
Grandson of Fu Hong, ruled as Heavenly King | 338–385
(aged 47) Conquered Former Yan, Former Liang, and Dai. Killed by Yao Chang. |
| Fu Pi | Emperor Aiping | 385–386
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Fu Jiān | Defeated by Murong Yong of Western Yan, later killed by the Eastern Jin army |
| Fu Deng | Emperor Gao II | 386–394
(7–8 years) Era(s)
|
Grandnephew of Fu Jiān | 343–394
(aged 51) Killed by Yao Xing of Later Qin |
| Fu Chong | – | 394
(less than a year) Era(s)
|
Son of Fu Deng | Killed by Qifu Qiangui of Western Qin |
Later Yan (後燕; 384–409)
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murong Chui | Emperor Wucheng I | 384–396
(11–12 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Prince Murong Huang of Former Yan, reestablished his kingdom after the Battle of Fei River | 326–396
(aged 70) Conquered Western Yan in 394 |
| Murong Bao | Emperor Huimin | 396–398
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Murong Chui | 355–398
(aged 43) Killed by the usurper Lan Han |
| Murong Sheng | Emperor Zhaowu II | 398–401
(2–3 years) |
Son of Murong Bao, came to power after killing Lan Han | 373–401
(aged 28) Killed by general Duan Ji |
| Murong Xi | Emperor Zhaowen I | 401–407
(5–6 years) |
Son of Murong Chui | 385–407
(aged 22) Killed by Feng Ba |
Later Qin (後秦; 384–417)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yao Chang | Emperor Wuzhao I | 384–393
(8–9 years) |
Proclaimed King after the Battle of Fei River, then Emmperor after killing Fu Jiān of Former Qin | 343–394
(aged 51) Died of natural causes |
| Yao Xing | Emperor Wenhuan | 394–416
(21–22 years) |
Son of Yao Chang | 366–416
(aged 50) Conquered Former Qin and Later Liang. Favored Buddhism and Taoism. |
| Yao Hong | – | 416–417
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Yao Xing | 388–417
(aged 29) Executed by the Eastern Jin |
Western Qin (西秦; 385–400, 409–431)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qifu Guoren | Prince Xuanlie | 385–388
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Former general of Former Qin | Died of natural causes |
| Qifu Gangui | Prince Wuyuan | 388–412
(23–24 years) |
Younger brother of Qifu Guoren | Surrendered to Later Qin in 400, reclaimed the throne in 409. Killed by his nephew |
| Qifu Chipan | Prince Wenzhao | 412–428
(15–16 years) |
Son of Qifu Gangui | Conquered Southern Liang in 414 |
| Qifu Mumo | – | 428–431
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Qifu Chipan | Killed by the Xia |
Later Liang (後涼; 386–403)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lü Guang | Emperor Yiwu | 386–399
(12–13 years) |
Former general of Former Qin, proclaimed himself Duke of Jiuquan in 386 and Heavenly King in 396 | 337–399
(aged 19) Abdicated in favor of his son |
| Lü Shao | Prince Yin II | 399
(less than a year) |
Son of Lü Guang | Was forced to commit suicide by his brother |
| Lü Zuan | Emperor Ling III | 399–401
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Lü Guang | Killed by Lü Chao, Guang's nephew |
| Lü Long | – | 401–403
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Nephew of Lü Guang | Killed by Yao Hong of Later Qin |
Southern Liang (南涼; 397–414)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tufa Wugu | Prince Wu VIII | 397–399
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Proclaimed himself Great Chanyu | Died of natural causes |
| Tufa Lilugu | Prince Kang VI | 399–402
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Elder brother of Tufa Wugu | Died of natural causes |
| Tufa Rutan | Prince Jing V | 402–414
(11–12 years) |
Elder brother Tufa Lilugu | 364–415
(aged 51) Captured and killed by Western Qin |
Northern Liang (北涼; 397–439)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duan Ye | – | 397–401
(3–4 years) |
Governor of Later Liang, proclaimed himself Prince of Liang in 397 | Killed by Juqu Mengxun |
| Juqu Mengxun | – | 401–433
(31–32 years) |
Former ally of Duan Ye, proclaimed himself Duke of Zhangye | Conquered Western Liang in 421 |
| Juqu Mujian | Prince Ai VI | 433–439
(5–6 years) |
Son of Juqu Mengxun | Defeated by Northern Wei, later forced to commit suicide in 449 for sedition |
Southern Yan (南燕; 398–410)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murong De | Emperor Xianwu | 398–405
(6–7 years) Era(s)
|
Younger brother of Murong Chui of Later Yan, declared himself Prince in 398 and then Emperor in 400 | 336–405
(aged 69) Captured and killed by Western Qin |
| Murong Chao | – | 405–410
(4–5 years) Era(s)
|
Uncertain succession | 385–410
(aged 25) Captured and killed by Eastern Jin |
Western Liang (西涼; 400–421)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Li Gao | Prince Wuzhao II | 400–417
(16–17 years) |
Governor of Dunhuang under Duan Ye of Northern Liang, declared himself Duke | 351–417
(aged 66) Died of natural causes |
| Li Xin | – | 417–420
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Li Gao | Killed by Juqu Mengxun of Northern Liang |
| Li Xun | – | 420–421
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Li Gao | Committed suicide after the fall of Dunhuang |
Helian Xia (胡夏; 407–431)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helian Bobo | Emperor Wulie I | 407–425
(17–18 years) |
Subordinate of Yao Xing of Later Qin, declared himself Heavenly King in 407 and then Emperor at Chang'an in 418 | 381–425
(aged 44) Died of natural causes |
| Helian Chang | – | 425–428
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Helian Bobo | Executed by Northern Wei in 434 |
| Helian Ding | – | 428–431
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Helian Bobo | Executed by Tuyuhun in 432 |
Northern Yan (北燕; 407–436)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gao Yun | Emperor Huiyi | 407–409
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Adopted son of Murong Bao or Later Yan, proclaimed Heavenly King by Feng Ba | Killed by his underlings |
| Feng Ba | Emperor Wencheng I | 409–430
(20–21 years) Era(s)
|
Seized power after Yun's death | Died of natural causes |
| Feng Hong | Emperor Zhaocheng | 430–436
(5–6 years) Era(s)
|
Younger brother of Feng Ba | Defeated by Northern Wei, later murdered in Goguryeo |
Northern and Southern Dynasties (420–589)[]
Northern Dynasties (420–581)[]
Northern Wei (北魏; 386–535)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Daowu | Tuoba Gui | 20 February 386 – 409 | Leader of the Tuoba, refounded the Dai State as Wei | 371–409
(aged 39) Killed by his son Tuoba Shao |
| Emperor Mingyuan | Tuoba Si | 409–423
Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Daowu | 392–423
(aged 31) Died of disease |
| Emperor Taiwu | Tuoba Tao | 423–452
Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Mingyuan | 408–452
(aged 43–44) Conquered Xia, Northern Yan and Liang. Killed by eunuch Zong Ai |
| Tuoba Yu | Tuoba Yu | 452 Era(s)
|
Son of Taiwu. Put on the throne by eunuch Zong Ai | Killed by Zong Ai |
| Emperor Wencheng II | Tuoba Jun | 452–465
Era(s)
|
Grandson of Taiwu. Ascended to the throne after the murder of Zong. | 440–465
(aged 24–25) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Xianwen | Tuoba Hong | 465–471
Era(s)
|
Son of Wencheng | 454–476
(aged 21–22) Abdicated in favor of his son Yuan Hong, later dying of natural causes |
| Emperor Xiaowen II | Tuoba Hong
Yuan Hong |
471–499
Era(s)
|
Son of Xianwen, ruled under the regency of Empress Dowager Feng until 470. | 467–499
(aged 31–32) One of the most significant reformers in medieval China. Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Xuanwu | Yuan Ke | 499–515
Era(s)
|
Son of Xiaowen | 483–515
(aged 31–32) His reign marked the decline of Wei |
| Emperor Xiaoming | Yuan Xu | 515–528
Era(s)
|
Son of Xuanwu | 510–528
(aged 17–18) Killed in a power struggle against Empress Dowager Hu |
| Yuan Zhao | Yuan Zhao | 528 | Enthroned by Empress Dowager Hu | 526–528
(aged 2) Killed by general Erzhu Rong |
| Emperor Xiaozhuang | Yuan Ziyou | 528–530
Era(s)
|
Enthroned by Erzhu Rong | 507–early 531
(aged 24) Killed by general Erzhu Zhao |
| Yuan Ye | Yuan Ye | 530–531
Era(s)
|
Enthroned by the Erzhu Clan in opposition to Xiaozhuang | Executed in 532 |
| Emperor Jiemin | Yuan Gong | 531–532
Era(s)
|
Enthroned by Erzhu Shilong | 498–532
(aged 33–34) Deposed and executed by Gao Huan |
| Yuan Lang | Yuan Lang | 531–532
Era(s)
|
Enthroned by Gao Huan | 513–532
(aged 19–18) Deposed and executed by Gao Huan |
| Emperor Xiaowu II | Yuan Xiu | 532–535
Era(s)
|
Enthroned by Gao Huan | 510–early 535
(aged 25) Fled to Chang’an, where he was poisoned by Yuwen Tai of Northern Zhou |
Eastern Wei (东魏; 534–550)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Xiaojing | Yuan Shanjian | 534–550 | Enthroned by Gao Huan | 524–552
(aged 27–28) Forced to abdicate and later poisoned by Gao Yang |
Northern Qi (北齐; 550–577)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Wenxuan | Gao Yang | 550–559
Era(s)
|
Regent of Eastern Wei, proclaimed himself emperor after deposing Emperor Xiaojing | 529–559
(aged 29–30) Supposedly suffered insanity in his late reign. Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Fei III | Gao Yin | 559–560
Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Wenxuan, enthroned by official Yang Yin | 545–561
(aged 15–16) Forced to abdicate by his uncles Gao Yan and Gao Zhan, later executed |
| Emperor Xiaozhao | Gao Yan | 560–561
Era(s)
|
Son of Gao Huan, seized power through a palace coup | 535–559
(aged 25–26) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Wucheng | Gao Zhan | 561–565 | Brother of Xiaozhao | 537–569
(aged 31–32) Abdicated in favor of his son, later dying of natural causes |
| Houzhu I | Gao Wei | 565–577 | Son of Wucheng, ruled under his father's regency until 569 | 557–577
(aged 19–20) Abdicated in favor of his son, later killed by Northern Zhou |
| Chengguang II | Gao Heng | 577
Era(s)
|
Son of Gao Wei | 557–577
(aged 19–20) Abdicated in favor of his uncle Gao Jie, but was soon killed alongside him |
Western Wei (西魏; 535–557)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Wen III | Yuan Baoyu | 535–551
Era(s)
|
Grandson of Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei | 507–551
(aged 43–44) Killed by Yuwen Tai of Northern Zhou |
| Emperor Fei IV | Yuan Qin | 551–554 | Son of Emperor Wen, enthroned by Yuwen Tai | Poisoned to death by Yuwen Tai |
| Emperor Gong III | Yuan Kuo | 554–556 | Son of Emperor Wen, enthroned by Yuwen Tai | 537–557
(aged 19–20) Abdicated in favor of Yuwen Jue, Tai's son. Killed shortly after |
Northern Zhou (北周; 557–581)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Xiaomin | Yuwen Jue | 557 | Son of Yuwen Tai, proclaimed himself Heavenly King under Yuwen Hu's patronage and refounded the Northern Wei State as Zhou | 542–557
(aged 14–15) Poisoned to death after a failed coup against Yuwen Hu |
| Emperor Ming V | Yuwen Yu | 557–560
Era(s)
|
Son of Yuwen Tai, ruled alongside Yuwen Hu | 534–560
(aged 25–26) Poisoned to death by Yuwen Hu |
| Emperor Wu IX | Yuwen Yong | 561–578 | Son of Yuwen Tai, sole ruler after deposing Yuwen Hu in 572 | 543–578
(aged 34–35) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Xuan III | Yuwen Yun | 578–579
Era(s)
|
Son of Yuwen Yong | 559–580
(aged 34–35) He neglected government and abdicated in favor of his son |
| Emperor Jing VI | Yuwen Yan
Yuwen Chan |
579–581 | Son of Yuwen Yun | 573–581
(aged 7–8) Killed by officer Yang Jian, the future Emperor Wen of Sui |
Southern Dynasties (420–589)[]
Liu Song dynasty (劉宋, 420–479)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Wu X | Liu Yu | 420–422
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Proclaimed himself emperor after defeating Huan Xuan of Jin in 404, conquering Southern Yan in 410 and taking Later Qin in 417. | 363–422
(aged 58–59) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Shao II | Liu Yifu | 422–424
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Wu | 406–424
(aged 17–18) Killed by officer Xu Xianzhi |
| Emperor Wen IV | Liu Yilong | 424–453
(28–29 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Wu | 407–453
(aged 45–46) Killed by his son |
| Liu Shao II | Liu Shao | 453
(less than a year) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Wen | c. 426–453
(aged c. 27) Killed by his brother |
| Emperor Xiaowu III | Liu Jun | 453–464 (10–11 years) | Son of Emperor Wen | 430–464
(aged 13–14) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Qianfei | Liu Ziye | 464–465 (0–1 years) | Son of Emperor Xiaowu | 449–465
(aged 15–16) Killed in a conspiracy |
| Emperor Ming VI | Liu Yu | 466–472 (5–6 years) | Son of Emperor Wen | 439–472
(aged 15–16) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Houfei | Liu Yu | 472–477
(4–5 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Ming | 463–477
(aged 13–14) Killed by Xiao Daocheng |
| Emperor Shun II | Liu Zhun | 477–479
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Ming, enthroned by Xiao Daocheng, the future Emperor Gao of Southern Qi | 467–479
(aged 13–14) Killed by Xiao Daocheng |
Southern Qi (南齊; 479–502)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Gao III | Xiao Daocheng | 479–482
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Proclaimed himself emperor after overthrowing the Liu Song dynasty | 427–482
(aged 54–55) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Wu XI | Xiao Ze | 482–493
(10–11 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Gao | 440–493
(aged 54–55) Died of natural causes |
| Prince of Yulin | Xiao Zhaoye | 493–494
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Emperor Wu | 473–494
(aged 20–21) Killed by Xiao Luan |
| Xiao Zhaowen II | Xiao Zhaowen | 494
(less than a year) Era(s)
|
Younger brother of Xiao Zhaoye | 480–494
(aged 13–14) Killed by Xiao Luan |
| Emperor Ming VI | Xiao Luan | 494–498
(3–4 years) |
Nephew of Emperor Gao | 452–498
(aged 45–46) Died of natural causes |
| Marquess of Donghun | Xiao Baojuan | 498–501
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Xiao Luan | 483–501
(aged 17–18) Killed by his underlings |
| Emperor He II | Xiao Baorong | 501–502
(0–1 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Xiao Luan, set up in Jiangling in opposition to his brother | 488–502
(aged 13–14) Deposed and killed by Xiao Yan |
Liang dynasty (梁; 502–557)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Wu XII | Xiao Yan | 502–549
(46–47 years) |
Overthrew the Southern Qi | 464–549
(aged 85) Imprisoned during the rebellion of Hou Jing, died of hunger |
| Emperor Jianwen II | Xiao Gang | 549–551
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Wu, enthroned by Hou Jing | 503–551
(aged 47–48) Deposed and killed by Hou Jing |
| None, known by his personal name | Xiao Dong | 551
(less than a year) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Xiao Tong and great-grandson of Emperor Wu, enthroned by Hou Jing | 503–551
(aged 47–48) Deposed and killed by Xiao Yi |
| Emperor Yuan V | Xiao Yi | 552–555
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Wu. Sole ruler after defeating Hou Jing in 552 and Xiao Ji in 553. | 508–555
(aged 46–47) Captured and killed by Western Wei |
| Emperor Ming VII | Xiao Yuanming | 555
(less than a year) Era(s)
|
Nephew of Wu, enthroned by official Wang Sengbian | Deposed by Chen Baxian, died of natural causes in 556 |
| Emperor Jin II | Xiao Fangzhi | 555–557
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Yuan, enthroned by Chen Baxian | 543–558
(aged 14–15) Deposed and killed by Chen Baxian |
Western Liang (西梁; 555–587)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Xuan IV | Xiao Cha | 555–562
(6–7 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Xiao Tong and grandson of Emperor Wu, enthroned by Western Wei | 519–562
(aged 42–43) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Ming VIII | Xiao Kui | 562–585
(22–23 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Xiao Cha | 542–585
(aged 42–43) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Jing VII | Xiao Cong | 585–587
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Xiao Kui | Deposed by Emperor Wen of Sui in 587, died of natural causes c. 607 |
Chen dynasty(陳; 557–589)[]
| Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emperor Wu XIII | Chen Baxian | 557–559
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Overthrew the Liang Dynasty | 503–559
(aged 55–56) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Wen VI | Chen Qian | 559–566
(6–7 years) |
Nephew of Chen Baxian | 522–566
(aged 43–44) Died of natural causes |
| Emperor Fei V | Chen Bozong | 566–568
(1–2 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Emperor Wen | 554–570
(aged 15–16) Deposed by his uncle |
| Emperor Xuan V | Chen Xu | 569–582
(12–13 years) Era(s)
|
Younger brother of Emperor Wen | 528–582
(aged 59–60) Died of natural causes |
| Chen Houzhu II | Chen Shubao | 582–589
(6–7 years) |
Son of Emperor Xuan | 553–604
(aged 50–51) Neglect of government, he was captured by the Sui army. Died of natural causes |
Mid-imperial China[]
Sui dynasty (581–619)[]
| Portrait | Posthumous name | Personal name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wen VI | Yang Jian | 4 March 581 – 13 August 604
(23 years, 5 months and 9 days) |
Son of Yang Zhong, Duke of Sui. Overthrew the Northern Zhou and conquered the other Chinese states | 21 July 541 – 13 August 604
(aged 63) Instituted several institutional reforms and promoted Buddhism. Murdered by his son |
|
Yang I | Yang Guang | 21 August 604 – 11 April 618
(13 years, 7 months and 21 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Wen | 569 – 11 April 618
(aged 51) Led several construction projects and military campaigns. Overthrown in a rebellion and killed by his underlings |
| Gong IV | Yang You | 18 December 617 – 12 June 618
(5 months and 25 days) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Wen | 605 – 619
(aged 14) A puppet of Li Yuan. Deposed and later executed | |
Tang and Zhou dynasties (618–907)[]
| Portrait | Temple name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Tang (618–690) | |||||
|
Gaozu II
|
Emperor Taiwu II | 18 June 618 – 4 September 626
(8 years, 2 months and 17 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Li Bing, Duke of Tang and officer of Northern Zhou. Claimed descent from Li Gao, founder of Western Liang | 566 – 25 June 635
(aged 69) Abdicated in favor of his son following the Xuanwu Gate Incident. A fair and capable ruler, his reign is said to have started a golden age in Chinese history, although imperial propaganda often underestimated his reign to exalt that of his son |
|
Taizong I
|
Emperor Wen VII
文武皇帝 |
4 September 626 – 10 July 649
(23 years, 10 months and 6 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Gaozu; named heir after the murder of Crown Prince Li Jiancheng in the Xuanwu Gate Incident | 23 January 597/99 – 10 July 649
(aged 50–52) Considered one of the greatest emperors in Chinese history, both as a conqueror and administrator. His reign saw an Eastern expansion and economic growth not seen since the Han dynasty. Died after a period of prolonged illness, possibly due to alchemical elixir poisoning |
|
Gaozong II
|
Emperor Tianhuang
天皇大帝 |
15 July 649 – 27 December 683
(34 years, 5 months and 12 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Taizong | 20 July 628 – 27 December 683
(aged 55) A well-meaning but ineffectual ruler, his reign was dominated by several successive regencies. Suffered a serious stroke in late 660, whereafter the government was run by his wife, the future Empress Wu Zetian. Died after several years of illness |
|
Zhongzong I
|
Emperor Xiaohe
孝和皇帝 |
3 January 684 – 26 February 684
(1 month and 23 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Gaozong and Wu Zetian | 26 November 656 – 3 July 710
(aged 53) Deposed by his mother after challenging her authority |
|
Ruizong I
|
Emperor Xuanzhen
玄真皇帝 |
27 February 684 – 16 October 690
(6 years, 7 months and 19 days) |
Son of Gaozong and Wu Zetian | 22 June 662 – 13 July 716
(aged 54) A complete puppet of his mother; forced to abdicate |
Wu Zhou (690–705)[] | |||||
|
none, known as Wu Zetian
|
Zetian | 16 October 690 – 21 February 705
(14 years, 4 months and 5 days) Era(s)
|
Former consort of emperors Taizong and Gaozong; regent since November 660, de facto ruler since January 683 | |
Tang restoration (705–907)[] | |||||
|
|
Zhongzong I (second reign) | Emperor Xiaohe
孝和皇帝 |
23 February 705 – 3 July 710
(5 years, 4 months and 10 days) |
Restored to the throne by Tang loyalists | 26 November 656 – 3 July 710
(aged 53) A weak ruler; he died after eating a poisoned cake delivered by his wife, Empress Wei |
| none, known as Emperor Shang III | Li Chongmao | 8 July 710 – 25 July 710
(17 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhongzong; installed by Empress Wei | 698–714 (aged 16)
Second shortest-reigning emperor; deposed in a palace coup | |
|
|
Ruizong I (second reign) | Emperor Xuanzhen
玄真皇帝 |
25 July 710 – 8 September 712
(2 years, 1 month and 14 days) |
Restored to the throne by detractors of Empress Wei | 22 June 662 – 13 July 716
(aged 54) Spent his reign in a constant power struggle with his sister, Princess Taiping. Abdicated in favor of his son to undermine her influence |
|
Xuanzong
Other names
|
Emperor Zhidao I
至道皇帝 |
8 September 712 – 12 August 756
(43 years, 11 months and 4 days) |
Son of Ruizong | 8 September 685 – 3 May 762
(aged 76) One of the greatest and longest reigning Chinese emperors. The Tang empire reached its peak during his early reign, but fell of grace at the end as a result of the disastrous An Lushan Rebellion. Abdicated in favor of his son |
|
Suzong
Other names
|
Emperor Wenming
文明皇帝 |
12 August 756 – 16 May 762
(5 years, 9 months and 4 days) |
Son of Xuanzong; proclaimed emperor in Lingwu | 711 – 16 May 762
(aged 51) Recaptured Chang'an in November 757. During his reign the eunuchs grew increasingly powerful. |
|
Daizong I
Other names
|
Ruiwen | 18 May 762 – 10 June 779
(17 years and 23 days) |
Son of Suzong; proclaimed emperor in Chang'an | 9 January 727 – 10 June 779
(aged 52) Ended the An–Shi Rebellion, but failed to maintain control over the far provinces |
|
Dezong I
Other names
|
Shenwu I | 12 June 779 – 25 February 805
(25 years, 8 months and 13 days) |
Son of Daizong | 27 May 742 – 25 February 805
(aged 62) Notable for his tax reforms, he also attempted to control regional jiedushi, but this backfired and caused a military mutiny in 783 |
| Shunzong
Other names
|
Emperor Zhide
至德皇帝 |
28 February – 28 August 805
(6 months) Era(s)
|
Son of Dezong | February 761 – 11 February 806
(aged 45) Aphasic, weak and ill, he was urged to abdicate by the court eunuchs | |
|
Xianzong I
Other names
|
Emperor Zhaowen
昭文皇帝 |
5 September 805 – 14 February 820
(14 years, 5 months and 9 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Shunzong | March 778 – 14 February 820
(aged 41) Ended the warlord threat, but ended up becoming a puppet of the eunuchs. A drug addict, he was poisoned to death by eunuch Chen Hongzhi |
|
Muzong I
Other names
|
Emperor Ruisheng
睿聖皇帝 |
20 February 820 – 25 February 824
(4 years and 5 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Xianzong | July 795 – 25 February 824
(aged 28) Suffered a serious stroke in 822 (while playing polo), whereafter the government was run by eunuchs Wang Shoucheng and Li Fengji. |
_(cropped).jpg)
|
Jingzong I
Other names
|
Emperor Ruiwu
睿武皇帝 |
29 February 824 – 9 January 827
(2 years, 10 months and 11 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Muzong | 22 July 809 – 9 January 827
(aged 17) A reckless player of football; he was killed by eunuchs |
|
Wenzong I
Other names
|
Emperor Yuansheng
元聖皇帝 |
13 January 827 – 10 February 840
(13 years lacking 3 days) |
Son of Muzong | 20 November 809 – 10 February 840
(aged 30) Attempted to eradicate the eunuchs in the Sweet Dew incident (835), but ended up making them stronger. Died of natural causes |
|
Wuzong I
Other names
|
Emperor Zhidao II
至道皇帝 |
20 February 840 – 22 April 846
(6 years, 2 months and 2 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Muzong | 2 July 814 – 22 April 846
(aged 31) Notable for his persecution of Buddhism. Died of drug overdose |
|
Xuanzong I
Other names
|
Emperor Yuansheng
元聖皇帝 |
25 April 846 – 7 September 859
(13 years, 4 months and 13 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Xianzong | 27 July 810 – 7 September 859
(aged 49) Arguably the last capable Tang emperor. Notable for his campaigns against the Tibetan Empire. Died of drug overdose |
|
Yizong I
Other names
|
Emperor Zhaosheng
昭聖皇帝 |
13 September 859 – 15 August 873
(13 years, 11 months and 2 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Xuanzong | 28 December 833 – 15 August 873
(aged 39) A devout Buddhist, but also a cruel and unstable ruler. His reign, which was dominated by eunuchs, saw various revolts that severely weakened imperial power |
|
Xizong I
Other names
|
Emperor Huisheng
惠聖皇帝 |
16 August 873 – 20 April 888
(14 years, 8 months and 4 days) |
Son of Yizong | 8 June 862 – 20 April 888
(aged 25) A puppet of Tian Lingzi, had to flee Chang'an twice due to internal strife |
| None, known by his personal name | Li Yun | 31 October 886 – January 887
(3 months) Era(s)
|
Great-grandson of Suzong, took power in Chang'an | Died in 887
Killed by Xizong's forces; often seen as an usurper | |
|
Zhaozong
Other names
|
Emperor Shengmu
聖穆皇帝 |
20 April 888 – 22 September 904
(12 years, 7 months and 11 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Yizong | 31 March 867 – 22 September 904
(aged 37) His reign saw the final collapse of imperial authority and the rise of new powerful warlords. He was killed by rebel Zhu Wen |
| Jingzong II
Other names
|
Emperor Ai VII | 26 September 904 – 1 June 907
(2 years, 8 months and 6 days) |
Son of Zhaozong, proclaimed emperor in Luoyang | 27 October 892 – 25 March 908
(aged 15) Installed, deposed, and later killed by Zhu Wen | |
Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms[]
Five Dynasties (907–912)[]
Later Liang (後梁; 907–923)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zhu Wen | Taizu I | 907–912
(4–5 years) Eras
|
Former ally of rebel Huang Chao, defected to the Imperial army in 882 but later betrayed the Tang and proclaimed himself Emperor in Kaifeng | 852–912
(aged 60) Killed by his son |
| Zhu Yougui | Fengli | 912–913
(0–1 years) Eras
|
Son of Zhu Wen, usurped power after learning of his father's intentions of adopting Zhu Youwen as heir | Died in 913
Described as murderous and lustful, he was killed by his brother |
| Zhu Youzhen | Mo II | 913–923
(9–10 years) Eras
|
Son of Zhu Wen | 888–923
(aged 35) Killed by the forces of Li Cunxu |
Later Tang (後唐; 923–937)[]
| Personal name | Temple or Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Li Cunxu | Zhuangzong | 923–926
(2–3 years) Eras
|
Proclaimed himself Emperor after conquering Later Liang | 885–926
(aged 41) Killed in a coup |
| Li Siyuan | Mingzong I | 926–933
(6–7 years) Eras
|
Adopted son of Li Keyong, took Luoyang and proclaimed himself Emperor after the murder of Li Cunxu | 867–933
(aged 66) Died of natural causes |
| Li Conghou | Min II | 934
(less than a year) Eras
|
Son of Li Siyuan | 914–early 934
(aged 20) Killed by Li Congke |
| Li Congke | — | 934–937
(2–3 years) Eras
|
Adopted son of Li Siyuan, he usurped power from Li Conghou | 884/6–936
(aged 50–52) Defeated by Shi Jingtang of Later Jin, he burned himself to death |
Later Jin (後晉; 936–947)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shi Jingtang | Gaozu III | 936–942
(5–6 years) Eras
|
Proclaimed himself emperor with the help of the Shatuo and Khitan people | 892–942
(aged 50) Died of natural causes |
| Shi Chonggui | Shao III | 942–947
(4–5 years) Eras
|
Nephew of Shi Jingtang | 914–947
(aged 33) Captured by Emperor Taizong of Liao but spared; died of natural causes |
Later Han (後漢; 947–951)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liu Zhiyuan | Gaozu IV | 947–948
(0–1 years) Eras
|
Jiedushi under the Later Jin, proclaimed himself emperor after the capture of Shi Chonggui by the Khitan | 895–948
(aged 53) Died of natural causes |
| Liu Chengyou | Yin III | 948–951
(2–3 years) Eras
|
Son of Liu Zhiyuan | 931–951
(aged 20) Killed by the forces of Guo Wei |
Later Zhou (後周; 951–960)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guo Wei | Taizu II | 951–954
(2–3 years) Eras
|
Officer of Later Han, proclaimed himself emperor and dethroned Liu Chengyou | 904–954
(aged 50) Died of natural causes; introduced reforms that greatly benefited farming |
| Chai Rong / Ruiwu I | Shizong I | 954–959
(4–5 years) Eras
|
Adopted son of Guo Wei | 921–959
(aged 38) Conquered Eastern and Southwest China; died of natural causes |
| Chai Zongxun | Gong V | 959–960
(0–1 years) Eras
|
Son of Chai Rong | 953–973
(aged 20) Deposed by Emperor Taizu of Song |
Ten Kingdoms (907–979)[]
Former Shu (前蜀; 907–925)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wang Jian | Gaozu V / Shenwu II | 907–918
(10–11 years) |
Rebelled against the Tang in 891, named Prince in 903 and later proclaimed himself emperor in 907 | 847–918
(aged 69) Died of natural causes; known for his great tomb and stone statues |
| Wang Zongyan | Huayuan | 918–925
(6–7 years) |
Son of Wang Jian | 899–926
(aged 27) Lustful and neglected of government, he was killed by Li Cunxu |
Yang Wu (楊吳; 907–937)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yang Xingmi | Taizu III | 902–905
(2–3 years) |
Took over Yangzhou in 892 and was named "Prince of Wu" in 902, became independent after the fall of the Tang | 852–905
(aged 53) Died of natural causes |
| Yang Wo | Liezu / Jing VIII | 905–908
(2–3 years) |
Son of Yang Xingmi | 886–908
(aged 22) Killed by Zhang Hao and Xu Wen |
| Yang Longyan | Gaozu VI / Xuan VI | 908–920
(11–12 years) |
Son of Yang Xingmi, enthroned by Xu Wen | 897–920
(aged 23) Died of natural causes |
| Yang Pu | Rui I | 920–937
(16–17 years) |
Son of Yang Xingmi and enthroned by Xu Zhigao (Li Bian), declared himself Emperor in 927 | 901–938
(aged 37) Forced to abdicate to Li Bian of Southern Tang; died of natural causes |
Ma Chu (馬楚; 907–951)[]
| Personal name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ma Yin | Prince Wumu | 907–930
(22–23 years) |
A carpenter who rose from the ranks to become prefect of Tanzhou in 896, he was named Prince in 927 by Li Siyuan | 852–930
(aged 78) Died of natural causes |
| Ma Xisheng | Prince of Hengyang | 930–932
(1–2 years) |
Son of Ma Yin | 899–932
(aged 33) An admirer of Zhu Wen, he cooked 50 chickens a day; died of natural causes |
| Ma Xifan | Prince Wenzhao | 932–947
(14–15 years) |
Son of Ma Yin, didn't assume his title until later in his reign | 899–947
(aged 48) Known for his extravagance and his building projects; died of natural causes |
| Ma Xiguang | — | 947–951
(3–4 years) |
Son of Ma Yin | Died in 951
Deposed and later killed by his brother |
| Ma Xi'e | — | 951
(less than a year) |
Son of Ma Yin | Deposed by his brother, fate unknown |
| Ma Xichong | — | 951
(less than a year) |
Son of Ma Yin | Deposed by the Southern Tang with the help of Xi’e's supporters, fate unknown |
Wuyue (吳越; 907–978)[]
| Personal/ Temple name | Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taizu IV | Prince Wusu | 907–932
(24–25 years) |
Named "Prince of Wuyue" by Later Liang | 852–932
(aged 80) Died of natural causes |
| Shizong II | Prince Wensu | 932–941
(8–9 years) |
Son of Qian Liu | 887–941
(aged 54) Died of natural causes |
| Chengzong I | Prince Zhongxian | 941–947
(5–6 years) |
Son of Qian Yuanguan | 928–947
(aged 69) Died of natural causes |
| Qian Hongzong | Prince Zhongxun | 947–early 948
(0–1 years) |
Son of Qian Yuanguan | c. 929–c. 971
(aged approx. 42) Deposed by general Hu Jinsi, fate unknown |
| Qian Chu | Prince Zhongyi | 978
(less than a year) |
Son of Qian Yuanguan | 929–988
(aged 59) Surrendered to the Song dynasty, died of sudden illness or poisoning |
Min (閩; 909–944) & Yin (殷; 943–945)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wang Shenzhi | Taizu V | 909–925
(15–16 years) |
Younger brother of warlord Wang Chao, named wang of Min by Later Liang | 862–925
(aged 63) One of the most peaceful reign periods of the period; died of natural causes |
| Wang Yanhan | Min III | 926–927
(0–1 years) |
Son of Wang Shenzhi | Died in 927
Killed by his brother |
| Wang Yanjun | Huizong I | 927–935
(7–8 years) |
Son of Wang Shenzhi, proclaimed Prince in 928 and later Emperor in 933 | Died in 935
Killed by his son |
| Wang Jipeng
Wang Chang |
Kangzong | 935–939
(3–4 years) |
Son of Wang Yanjun | Died in 939
A devout Taoist, he was killed in a coup |
| Wang Yanxi | Jingzong III | 939–944
(4–5 years) |
Son of Wang Shenzhi | Died in 944
A despotic ruler, he was killed by Lian Chongyu and his associates |
| Wang Yanzheng | Gongyi | 945
(less than a year) |
Proclaimed himself "Prince of Yin" to rival his brother Wang Yanxi | Died in 945
Defeated by Southern Tang, died of natural causes in captivity |
Great Yue (大越; 917–918) Southern Han (南漢; 918–971)[]
| Personal name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liu Yan | Gaozu VII | 917–942
(24–25 years) |
Took over of Guangzhou in 911, proclaimed himself Emperor of Yue (renamed "Han" in 918) | 889–942
(aged 63) A despotic and extravagant ruler; died of natural causes |
| Liu Bin | Shang IV | 942–943
(0–1 years) |
Son of Liu Yan | 920–943
(aged 63) An hedonistic ruler; he was killed by his brother |
| Liu Sheng | Zhongzong II | 943–958
(14–15 years) |
Son of Liu Yan | 920–958
(aged 38) Died of natural causes |
| Liu Chang | Dabao | 958–971
(12–13 years) |
Son of Liu Sheng | 943–980
(aged 37) Another hedonistic ruler, he surrendered to the Song army and was spared |
Jingnan (荊南; 924–963)[]
| Personal Name | Courtesy name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gao Jixing | Wuxin | 924–early 929
(4–5 years) |
Named King of Nanping by Later Tang in 924, ruled under the vassalage of Wu | 858–929
(aged 71) Died of natural causes |
| Gao Conghui | Wenxian | 929–948
(18–19 years) |
Son of Gao Jixing | 891–948
(aged 57) A weak ruler, he was nicknamed "Gao the Jerk" (高賴子); died of natural causes |
| Gao Baorong | Zhenyi | 948–960
(11–12 years) |
Son of Gao Conghui | 920–960
(aged 40) Died of natural causes |
| Gao Baoxu | Xinggong | 960–962
(1–2 years) |
Son of Gao Conghui, effective ruler during the reign of his brother | 924–962
(aged 38) Died of natural causes |
| Gao Jichong | Jichong | 962–963
(0–1 years) |
Son of Gao Baorong | 943–973
(aged 30) Surrendered to the Song but spared |
Later Shu (後蜀; 934–965)[]
| Personal Name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meng Zhixiang | Gaozu VIII | 934
(less than a year) |
Later Tang governor from 926, proclaimed King in 933 and later Emperor in 93 | 874–934
(aged 60) Died of natural causes |
| Meng Chang | Gongxiao | 934–965
(30–31 years) |
Son of Meng Zhixiang | 919–965
(aged 60) Defeated by the Song dynasty, died of natural causes |
Southern Tang (南唐; 937–976)[]
| Personal Name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Li Bian | Liezu | 937–943
(5–6 years) |
Adopted son of Xu Wen, proclaimed himself Emperor after overthrowing the Yang Wu | 888–943
(aged 55) Died of natural causes |
| Li Jing | Yuanzong I | 943–961
(17–18 years) |
Son of Li Bian | 888–943
(aged 55) Conquered Min and Chu, but failed to ward the attacks of Later Zhou. A distinguished poet, he died of natural causes |
| Li Yu | — | 961–976
(14–15 years) |
Son of Li Jing | 937–978
(aged 41) A master of the ci poetry, he surrendered to the Song dynasty but was spared |
Northern Han (北漢; 951–979)[]
| Personal Name | Temple name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liu Chong | Shizu I | 951–954
(2–3 years) |
Cousin of Liu Zhiyuan of Later Tang, proclaimed himself Emperor | 895–954
(aged 59) Died of natural causes |
| Liu Jun | Ruizong I | 954–968
(13–14 years) |
Son of Liu Chong | 926–968
(aged 42) Died of natural causes |
| Liu Ji'en | Shaozhu | 968
(less than a year) |
Adopted son of Liu Jun | 935–968
(aged 33) Killed by Hou Barong |
| Liu Jiyuan | Yingwu | 968–979
(10–11 years) |
Adopted son of Liu Jun | 956–991
(aged 35) Surrendered to the Song and spared |
Late imperial[]
Song dynasty (960–1279)[]
| Portrait | Temple name | Short Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Song (960–1127) | |||||
|
Taizu VI
Other names
|
Da II | 4 February 960 – 14 November 976
(16 years, 9 months and 10 days) Era(s)
|
Proclaimed emperor after deposing Chai Zongxun of Later Zhou. Unified most of China under his rule | 21 March 927 – 14 November 976
(aged 49) Significantly reduced the power of the military in favor of civilian officers. Died in uncertain circumstances, probably illness |
|
Taizong II
Other names
|
Guang | 14 November 976 – 8 May 997
(20 years, 5 months and 24 days) Era(s)
|
Younger brother of Taizu | 20 November 939 – 8 May 997
(aged 57) Conquered the last remaining Chinese state in 978, but failed the reconquer former Tang territories, like Vietnam. Died of natural causes |
|
Zhenzong
Other names
|
Yuan VI | 8 May 997 – 23 March 1022
(24 years, 10 months and 15 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Taizong | 23 December 968 – 23 March 1022
(aged 53) Suffered significant defeats to the northern Liao dynasty, leading to the Chanyuan Treaty. Died after a prolonged period of illness |
|
Renzong I
Other names
|
Ming IX | 23 March 1022 – 30 April 1063
(41 years, 1 month and 7 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhenzong | 30 May 1010 – 30 April 1063
(aged 52) Ruled under the regency of Empress Liu until 1033. His long reign, the longest of the Song dynasty, saw several developments in culture, philosophy and arts |
|
Yingzong I
Other names
|
Xuan VII | 1 May 1063 – 25 January 1067
(3 years, 8 months and 24 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhao Yunrang, a grandson of Emperor Taizong, and adopted son of Emperor Renzong | 16 February 1032 – 25 January 1067
(aged 34) Ruled initially under the regency of Empress Dowager Cao. Died after several years of illness |
|
Shenzong I
Other names
|
Sheng | 25 January 1067 – 1 April 1085
(18 years, 2 months and 7 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Yingzong | 25 May 1048 – 1 April 1085
(aged 36) Best known by the implementation of the "New Policies". Died of illness |
|
Zhezong
Other names
|
Zhao III | 1 April 1085 – 23 February 1100
(14 years, 6 months and 25 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Shenzong | 4 January 1077 – 23 February 1100
(aged 23) Ruled under the regency of Empress Dowager Gao until 1093. Died of illness |
|
Huizong II
Other names
|
Xian III | 23 February 1100 – 18 January 1126
(25 years, 10 months and 26 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Shenzong | 7 June 1082 – 4 June 1135
(aged 52) A remarkable patron of the arts and an artist himself, but a weak ruler and politician. Abdicated during the Jurchen Jin siege of Kaifeng. Captured by the Jin shortly after; died in captivity |
|
Qinzong
Other names
|
Ren III | 19 January 1126 – 25 March 1127
(1 year, 2 months and 6 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Huizong | 23 May 1100 – 14 June 1161
(aged 62) Refused to negotiate with the Jin, which led to a second invasion. Captured alongside his father during the Jingkang incident; died in captivity |
| Southern Song (1127–1279) | |||||
|
Gaozong III
Other names
|
Xian IV | 12 June 1127 – 24 July 1162
(36 years, 6 months and 5 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Huizong, proclaimed emperor in Jiankang after fleeing the Jurchen invasion of the North | 12 June 1107 – 9 November 1187
(aged 83) A competent ruler that managed to preserve the Song dynasty, but often criticized for his military defeats and political failures. Abdicated in favor of his adopted son, later dying of natural causes |
| None, known by his personal name | Zhao Fu | March – April 1129
(1 month or less) Era(s)
|
Son of Gaozong, proclaimed emperor during a mutiny | An infant installed by officers Miao Fu and Liu Zhengyan. They lost power within a month | |
|
Xiaozong I
Other names
|
Cheng V | 24 July 1162 – 18 February 1189
(26 years, 6 months and 25 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhao Zicheng, a descendent of the first Song Emperor, and adopted son of Gaozong | 27 November 1127 – 28 June 1194
(aged 66) Often regarded as the most peaceful and stable ruler of the Southern Song. Abdicated in favour of his son, later dying of natural causes |
|
Guangzong I
Other names
|
Ci | 18 February 1189 – 24 July 1194
(5 years, 5 months and 6 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Xiaozong | 30 September 1147 – 17
September 1200 (aged 53) Forced to abdicate in favor of his son, allegedly because of his mental instability. Died of natural causes |
|
Ningzong I
Other names
|
Gong VII | 24 July 1194 – 17 September 1224
(30 years, 1 month and 24 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Guangzong | 19 November 1168 – 17
September 1224 (aged 66) A weak and indecisive ruler who spent most of his life in isolation at the palace. Died of illness |
|
Lizong
Other names
|
An IV | 17 September 1224 – 16 November 1264 (40 years, 1 month and 30 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhao Xilu, a descendant of the first Song Emperor, Taizu | 26 January 1205 – 16
November 1264 (aged 59) An emperor devoted to philosophy and the arts, he had to face the first Mongol incursions following the fall of the Jin. Died of illness |
|
Duzong
Other names
|
Jing IX | 16 November 1264 – 12 August 1274
(9 years, 8 months and 27 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Zhao Yurui, a brother of Lizong | 2 May 1240 – 12 August 1274
(aged 34) Relegated most imperial duties to his officers. Died of sudden illness |
|
Gongzong I
Other names
|
Gong VII | 12 August 1274 – 21 February 1276
(1 year, 6 months and 5 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Duzong | 2 November 1270 – 1323
Ruled under the regency of Empress Xie, who was forced to surrender to the Mongols. Became a monk in Tibet, but was later executed of forced to commit suicide; died in Gansu |
|
Duanzong
Other names
|
Min IV | 14 June 1276 – 8 May 1278
(1 year and 11 months) Era(s)
|
Son of Duzong, proclaimed emperor in Fuzhou after the fall of the capital | 1268 – 8 May 1278
(aged 10) Spent most of his life fleeing from the Mongols by sea. Died of illness after barely surviving the sinking of his ship |
|
Huaizong | Bing II | 10 May 1278 – 19 March 1279
(10 months and 9 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Duzong | 1271 – 19 March 1279
(aged 8) Thrown into the Xi River during the Battle of Yamen alongside several soldiers and officers as part of a mass suicide |
Northern regimes (916–1234)[]
Liao dynasty (916–1125)[]
| Temple name | Short Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taizu VII
|
Tian | 27 February 907 – 6 September 926
(19 years, 6 months and 10 days) |
Led the Yelü clan as Khagan to unite the Khitan people | 872 – 6 September 926
(aged 53–54) Died of natural causes |
| Taizong III
Other names
|
Wu XIV | 11 December 927 – 15 May 947
(19 years, 4 months and 23 days) |
Son of Taizu | 902 – 15 May 947
(aged 44–45) Died from a sudden illness |
| Shizong III
Other names
|
He III | 16 May 947 – 7 October 951
(4 years, 4 months and 21 days) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Taizu | 918 – 7 October 951
(aged 32–33) Murdered by his cousin in a coup d'état |
| Muzong II
Other names
|
An V | 11 October 951 – 12 March 969
(17 years, 5 months and 1 day) Era(s)
|
Son of Taizong | 931 – 12 March 969
(aged 37–38) Killed by his personal attendants |
| Jingzong IV
Other names
|
Cheng VI | 13 May 969 – 13 October 982
(13 years and 5 months) |
Son of Shizong | 948 – 13 October 982
(aged 33–34) Died of illness on a hunting trip |
| Shengzong
Other names
|
Xuan VIII | 14 October 982 – 25 June 1031
(48 years, 8 months and 11 days) |
Son of Jingzong | 971 – 25 June 1031
(aged 59–60) Longest reigning Liao ruler, though he was controlled by his mother Xiao Yanyan until 1009. Died of natural causes |
| Xingzong
Other names
|
Zhang II | 25 June 1031 – 28 August 1055
(24 years, 2 months and 3 days) |
Son of Shengzong | 1016 – 28 August 1055
(aged 38–39) Died of natural causes |
| Daozong I
Other names
|
Wen VIII | 28 August 1055 – 12 February 1101
(45 years, 5 months and 15 days) |
Son of Xingzong | 1032 – 12 February 1101
(aged 68–69) Died of natural causes |
| None, known by his posthumous name: Tianzuo | Yelü Yanxi | 12 February 1101 – 6 September 1125
(24 years, 6 months and 25 days) |
Grandson of Daozong | 1075 – after 6 September 1125
(aged 49–50) Died in captivity from natural causes |
Western Xia (1038–1227)[]
| Temple name | Short Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jingzong V
Other names
|
Wulie II | 1038 – 1048
(9–10 years) Era(s)
|
Son of the Tangut leader Li Deming | 1003–1048
(aged 44–45) Assassinated by his son, Ningling Ge |
| Yizong II
Other names
|
Zhaoying | 1048 – January 1068
(19–20 years) Era(s) |
Son of Jingzong | 1047 – January 1068
(aged 20–21) Infant emperor whose reign was controlled by Lady Mozang and later Mozang Epang. Died of natural causes |
| Huizong III
Other names
|
Kangjing | January 1068 – 21 August 1086
(17–18 years) |
Son of Yizong | 1061 – 21 August 1086
(aged 24–25) Struggled with his mother for power throughout his reign. Died of natural causes |
| Chongzong
Other names
|
Shengwen I | 11 November 1086 – 1 July 1139
(52–53 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Huizong | 1084 – 1 July 1139
(aged 54–55) Died of natural causes |
| Renzong II
Other names
|
Shengde II | July 1139 – 16 October 1193
(53–54 years) |
Son of Chongzong | 1124 – 16 October 1193
(aged 68–69) Longest ruling ruler of the dynasty. Died of natural causes |
| Huanzong
Other names
|
Zhaojian | 1193 – 1 March 1206
(12–13 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Renzong | 1177 – 1 March 1206
(aged 28–29) Overthrown in a coup d'état led by Xiangzong. Died of natural causes |
| Xiangzong I
Other names
|
Jingmu | March 1206 – 13 September 1211
(4–5 years) |
Grandson of Renzong | 1170 – 13 September 1211
(aged 40–41) Suffered many losses from the Mongols. Died of natural causes |
| Shenzong II
Other names
|
Yingwen | 12 August 1211 – 1223
(14–15 years) Era(s)
|
Descendant of Jingzong | 1163 – 1226
(aged 62–63) Abdicated amid Mongol invasions. Died of natural causes |
| Xianzong II | Li Dewang | 1223 – August 1226
(2–3 years) Era(s)
|
Son of Shenzong | 1181 – August 1226
(aged 44–45) Died of natural causes |
| None, known by his personal name | Li Xian | 1226 – 1227
(1 year or less) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Shenzong | ? – 1227
(aged ?) Killed by the Mongols |
Jin dynasty (1115–1234)[]
| Temple name | Short Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taizu VIII
|
Wuyuan | 28 January 1115 – 19 September 1123
(8 years, 7 months and 22 days) |
Son of Helibo from the Wanyan tribe | 1 August 1068 – 19 September 1123
(aged 55) Conquered the Liao dynasty |
| Taizong IV
|
Wenlie | 27 September 1123 – 7 February 1135
(11 years, 4 months and 11 days) Era(s)
|
Brother of Taizu | 1075 – 7 February 1135
(aged 59–60) Sacked the North Song dynasty's capital. Died of natural causes |
| Xizong II
|
Xiaocheng | 8 February 1135 – 9 January 1150
(14 years, 11 months and 1 day) |
Grandson of Taizu | 1119 – 9 January 1150
(aged 30–31) Assassinated by his chancellor and successor Wanyan Liang |
| None, formally known as Yang II | Wanyan Liang | 9 January 1150 – 15 December 1161
(11 years, 11 months and 6 days) |
Grandson of Taizu | 1122 – 15 December 1161
(aged 38–39) Assassinated by his military commanders after losing the Battle of Caishi |
| Shizong IV
|
Renxiao | 27 October 1161 – 20 January 1189
(27 years, 2 months and 24 days) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Taizu | 1123 – 20 January 1189
(aged 65–66) Had the longest and most stable reign of the dynasty |
| Zhangzong
|
Yingxiao | 20 January 1189 – 29 December 1208
(19 years, 11 months and 9 days) |
Grandson of Shizong | 31 August 1168 – 29 December 1208
(aged 40) Died of natural causes |
| None, informally known asPrince Shao IV | Wanyan Yongji | 29 December 1208 – 11 September 1213
(4 years, 8 months and 13 days) |
Son of Shizong | ? – 11 September 1213
(aged ?) Assassinated under the orders of the Mongol general |
| Xuanzong II
|
Shengxiao | 22 September 1213 – 14 January 1224
(10 years, 3 months and 23 days) |
Grandson of Shizong | 1163 – 14 January 1224
(aged 60–61) Suffered heavy losses from the Mongols. Died of natural causes |
| Aizong | Min V | 15 January 1224 – 8 February 1234
(10 years and 24 days) |
Son of Xuanzong | 25 September 1198 – 9 February 1234
(aged 35) Committed suicide amid Mongol invasions |
| Mo III | Wanyan Chenglin | 9 February 1234
(less than a day) |
Descendent of Helibo | ? – 9 February 1234
(aged ?) The shortest reigning Chinese monarch, ruled for less than a day. Died during the Mongol conquest of the Jin |
Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)[]
| Portrait | Khan name | Temple name | Short Posthumous | Reign | 'Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Setsen Khan
better known as Kublai Khan |
Shizu II | Shengde III | 18 December 1271 – 18 February 1294
(22 years and 2 months) |
Grandson of Genghis Khan; declared emperor after defeating the Song in the Battle of Yamen | 23 September 1215 – 18 February 1294
(aged 78) Fully conquered the Song dynasty, won the Toluid Civil War, moved the capital to Khanbaliq and employed Marco Polo |
|
Öljeytü Khan
|
Chengzong II | Qinming | 10 May 1294 – 10 February 1307
(12 years and 9 months) |
Grandson of Kublai | 15 October 1265 – 10 February 1307
(aged 41) Died of natural causes |
|
Külüg Khan
|
Wuzong II | Renhui | 21 June 1307 – 27 January 1311
(3 years, 7 months and 6 days) Era(s)
|
Great-grandson of Kublai | 4 August 1281 – 27 January 1311
(aged 29) Died of natural causes |
|
Buyantu Khan
|
Renzong II | Shengwen II | 7 April 1311 – 1 March 1320
(8 years, 10 months and 23 days) |
Great-grandson of Kublai | 9 April 1285 – 1 March 1320
(aged 34) Died of natural causes |
|
Gegeen Khan
|
Yingzong II | Ruisheng II | 19 April 1320 – 4 September 1323
(3 years, 4 months and 16 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Ayurbarwada | 22 February 1302 – 4 September 1323
(aged 21) Killed in a coup led by |
|
None, known either by his personal or era name Borjigin Yesün Temür | 4 October 1323 – 15 August 1328
(4 years, 10 months and 11 days) |
Great-Grandson of Kublai | 28 November 1293 – 15 August 1328
(aged 34) Died of natural causes | ||
|
None, known either by his personal or era name Borjigin Ragibagh | October 1328 – 14 November 1328
(1 month and 13 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Yesün | 1320 – 14 November 1328
(aged 8) Child emperor; probably murdered amid the War of the Two Capitals | ||
|
Jayaatu Khan
|
Wenzong II | Shenming | 16 October 1328 – 26 February 1329
(4 months and 10 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Külüg | 16 February 1304 – 2 September 1332
(aged 28) Abdicated in favor of his brother Khutughtu Khan |
|
Khutughtu Khan
|
Mingzong II | Yixian | 27 February 1329 – 30 August 1329
(6 months and 3 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Külüg | 22 December 1300 – 30 August 1329
(aged 28) Briefly ruled before killed by El Temür |
|
|
Jayaatu Khan (second reign) | Ningzong II | Chongsheng | 8 September 1329 – 2 September 1332
(2 years, 11 months and 25 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Külüg | 16 February 1304 – 2 September 1332
(aged 28) A patron of the arts and scholarship, his reign was dominated by the ministers El Temür and Bayan of the Merkid. Died of natural causes |
|
None, known by his personal name
|
Huizong IV | Shun III | 23 October 1332 – 14 December 1332
(1 month and 21 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Khutughtu | 1 May 1326 – 14 December 1332
(aged 6) Child emperor; died of sudden illness |
|
Ukhaghatu Khan
|
19 July 1333 – 10 September 1368
(35 years, 2 months and 22 days) |
Son of Khutughtu | 25 May 1320 – 23 May 1370
(aged 49) Died of natural causes |
Ming dynasty (1368–1644)[]
| Portrait | Era name | Temple name | Short Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hongwu
|
Taizu IX | Gao IV | 23 January 1368 – 24 June 1398
(30 years, 5 months and 1 day) Era(s)
|
Born into poverty, he led the Red Turban Rebellions to establish the Ming dynasty | 21 October 1328 – 24 June 1398
(aged 69) Initiated cultural reconstruction and political reform, also noted for his extreme and violent methods of enforcement. Died of natural causes |
|
Jianwen III
|
Huizong V | Hui IV | 30 June 1398 – 13 July 1402
(4 years and 13 days) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Hongwu | 5 December 1377 – 13 July 1402
(aged 24) Overthrown by the future Yongle Emperor, his uncle. Either died in or disappeared after the fires in the Ming Palace. |
|
Yongle
|
Chengzu | Wen IX | 17 July 1402 – 12 August 1424
(22 years and 26 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Hongwu | 2 May 1360 – 12 August 1424
(aged 64) Raised the Ming to its highest power. Patron of many projects, including the Porcelain Tower of Nanjing, Yongle Encyclopedia and the Ming treasure voyages. Died of natural causes. |
|
Hongxi
|
Renzong IV | Zhao IV | 7 September 1424 – 29 May 1425
(8 months and 22 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Yongle | 16 August 1378 – 29 May 1425
(aged 46) Focused primarily on domestic affairs. Died of natural causes |
|
Xuande
|
Xuanzong III | Zhang III | 27 June 1425 – 31 January 1435
(9 years, 7 months and 4 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Hongxi | 16 March 1399 – 31 January 1435
(aged 35) A noted painter. Died of natural causes |
|
known by his temple:Yingzong III
|
Yingzong III | Rui II | 7 February 1435 – 1 September 1449
(14 years, 6 months and 25 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Xuande | 29 November 1427 – 23 February 1464
(aged 36) His reign was dominated by eunuchs, particularly Wang Zhen, which led to growing instability. Captured by the Northern Yuan dynasty during the Tumu Crisis. |
|
Jingtai
|
Daizong II | Jing X | 22 September 1449 – 24 February 1457
(7 years, 5 months and 2 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Xuande | 11 September 1428 – 14 March 1457
(aged 28) Briefly ruled while his brother was held captive; deposed soon after. Died a month later, possibly from murder. |
|
|
Yingzong III (second reign) | Yingzong III | Rui II | 11 February 1457 – 23 February 1464
(7 years and 12 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Xuande | 29 November 1427 – 23 February 1464
(aged 36) Restored to power after his release. Died of natural causes |
|
Chenghua
|
Xianzong III | Chun I | 28 February 1464 – 9 September 1487
(23 years, 6 months and 12 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Yingzong | 9 December 1447 – 9 September 1487
(aged 39) Died of natural causes |
|
Hongzhi
|
Xiaozong II | Jing IX | 22 September 1487 – 8 June 1505
(17 years, 8 months and 17 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Chenghua | 30 July 1470 – 9 June 1505
(aged 34) Died of natural causes |
|
Zhengde
|
Wuzong III | Yi VI | 19 June 1505 – 20 April 1521
(15 years, 10 months and 1 day) Era(s)
|
Son of Hongzhi | 14 November 1491 – 20 April 1521
(aged 29) His reign saw the rise of influence from eunuchs, particularly Liu Jin. Probably drowned after his boat sank. |
|
Jiajing
|
Shizong V | Su | 27 May 1521 – 23 January 1567
(45 years, 7 months and 26 days) Era(s)
|
Grandson of Chenghua, brother of Zhengde | 16 September 1507 – 23 January 1567
(aged 59) Died of natural causes |
|
Longqing
|
Muzong III | Zhuang II | 4 February 1567 – 5 July 1572
(5 years, 5 months and 1 day) Era(s)
|
Son of Jiajing | 4 March 1537 – 5 July 1572
(aged 35) Died of natural cause |
.jpg)
|
Wanli
|
Shenzong III | Xian V | 19 July 1572 – 18 August 1620
(48 years and 30 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Longqing | 4 September 1563 – 18 August 1620
(aged 56) Despite early successes, the gradual decline of Ming began towards the end of his reign. Died of natural causes |
|
Taichang
|
Guangzong II | Zhen I | 28 August – 26 September 1620
(29 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Wanli | 28 August 1582 – 26 September 1620
(aged 38) Died suddenly after a reign of around a month, possibly murdered by poison |
|
|
Tianqi
|
Xizong II | Zhen II | 1 October 1620 – 30 September 1627
(6 years, 11 months and 29 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Taichang | 23 December 1605 – 30 September 1627
(aged 21) A weak ruler, his reign was dominated by the eunuch Wei Zhongxian. Died from an unknown illness |
| Chongzhen
|
Sizong I | Min VI | 2 October 1627 – 25 April 1644
(16 years, 6 months and 23 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Taichang, brother of Tianqi | 6 February 1611 – 25 April 1644
(aged 33) Committed suicide, possibly by hanging himself on a tree. | |
Qing dynasty (1636–1912)[]
| Portrait | Era name | Personal name | Temple name | Short Posthumous name | Reign | Succession | Life details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Nurhaci | Aisin-Gioro Fulin | Taizu X | Gao V | 17 February 1616 – 30 September 1626
(10 years, 7 months and 13 days) |
Khan of Later Jin | |
|
Hong Taiji | Aisin-Gioro Huang Taiji | Taizong V | Wen X | 20 October 1626 – 21 September 1643
(16 years, 11 months and 1 day) |
Khan of Later Jin, First Qing Emperor | |
|
Shunzhi
|
Aisin-Gioro Fulin | Shizu III | Zhang IV | 8 October 1643 – 5 February 1661
(17 years, 3 months and 28 days) |
Son of Hong Taiji; chosen by a council of Manchu princes | 15 March 1638 – 5 February 1661
(aged 22) Finished the Manchu conquest of the Ming, pushing the remaining Ming sympathizers to the South. Died suddenly of smallpox |
|
Kangxi
|
Aisin-Gioro Xuanye | Shengzu I | Ren IV | 5 February 1661 – 20 December 1722
(61 years, 10 months and 15 days) |
Son of Shunzhi | 4 May 1654 – 20 December 1722
(aged 68) Longest ruling Chinese emperor. Expanded the empire's territory, and commissioned both the Kangxi Dictionary and Complete Tang Poems. Died of natural causes |
|
Yongzheng
|
Aisin-Gioro Yinzhen | Shizong VI | Xian VI | 27 December 1722 – 8 October 1735
(12 years, 9 months and 11 days) |
Son of Kangxi | 13 December 1678 – 8 October 1735
(aged 56) Ruled for a relatively short period, establishing the Grand Council. Probably died of alchemical elixir poisoning; death officially recorded as natural causes. |
|
Qianlong
|
Aisin-Gioro Hongli | Gaozong IV | Chun II | 18 October 1735 – 9 February 1796
(60 years, 3 months and 22 days) |
Son of Yongzheng | 25 September 1711 – 7 February 1799
(aged 87) Brought the empire to its height. Died of natural causes |
|
Jiaqing
|
Aisin-Gioro Yongyan | Renzong V | Rui III | 9 February 1796 – 2 September 1820
(24 years, 6 months and 24 days) Era(s)
|
Son of Qianlong | 13 November 1760 – 2 September 1820
(aged 59) Died suddenly from apoplexy |
|
Daoguang
|
Aisin-Gioro Minning | Xuanzong IV | Cheng VII | 3 October 1820 – 26 February 1850
(29 years, 4 months and 23 days) |
Son of Jiaqing | 16 September 1782 – 25 February 1850
(aged 67) An ineffective ruler who led a highly unstable reign, marked by the First Opium War and the early Taiping Rebellion. Probably died from a stroke |
|
Xianfeng
|
Aisin-Gioro Yizhu | Wenzong III | Xian VII | 9 March 1850 – 22 August 1861
(11 years, 5 months and 13 days) |
Son of Daoguang | 17 July 1831 – 22 August 1861
(aged 30) The last Chinese emperor to have personal power for the entirety of his reign, which was unstable after the Taiping Rebellion, Nian Rebellion and Second Opium War. Died of natural causes |
|
Tongzhi
|
Aisin-Gioro Zaichun | Muzong IV | Yi VII | 11 November 1861 – 12 January 1875
(13 years, 2 months and 1 day) |
Son of Xianfeng | 27 April 1856 – 12 January 1875
(aged 18) Reign was completely dominated by Empress Dowager Cixi, who initiated the Tongzhi Restoration. Died suddenly, under suspicious circumstances |
|
Guangxu
|
Aisin-Gioro Zaitian | Dezong II | Jing XII | 25 February 1875 – 14 November 1908
(33 years, 8 months and 20 days) Era(s)
|
Cousin of Tongzhi | 14 August 1871 – 14 November 1908
(aged 37) Initiated the failed Hundred Days' Reform, and from 1898 on, his reign was completely dominated by Empress Dowager Cixi. Died of poisoning, possibly from Cixi. |
|
Xuantong
|
Aisin-Gioro Puyi | Gongzong II | Min VII | 2 December 1908 – 12 February 1912
(3 years, 2 months and 10 days) Era(s)
|
Nephew of Guangxu | 7 February 1906 – 17 October 1967
(aged 61) Reigned as a young child, but forced to abdicate in 1912 amid the 1911 Revolution, ending the 268 year Qing rule of Imperial China. Died of natural causes. |
Modern China[]
Emperors and Warlords era[]
Ling Dynasty[]
| Portrait | Era name | Temple name | Posthumous Name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Xianzhu | Shizu IV | Xian VIII | 17 February 1912 – 9 July 1921
(9 years, 4 months and 22 days) |
Self Proclaimed |
|
Taifeng | Sizong II | Ai VIII | 9 July 1921 – 10 September 1925
(4 years, 2 months and 1 day) |
Son |
Xiao Dynasty[]
| Portrait | Era name | Temple name | Posthumous Name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Chunfeng | Shengzu II | An VI | 25 February 1912 – 20 January 1925
(12 years, 10 months and 26 days) |
Self Proclaimed |
|
Tangshang | Daozong II | Zhen III | 20 January 1925 – 18 February 1926
(1 year and 29 days) |
Son |
Western Ming[]
| Portrait | Era name | Temple name | Posthumous Name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Kangji | Taizu XI | Jing XIII | 21 March 1912 – 30 September 1923
(11 years, 6 months and 9 days) |
Self Proclaimed |
|
Kangxian | Yuanzong II | Ai IX | 30 September 1923 – 12 February 1926
(2 years, 4 months and 13 days) |
Son |
Hongxian Dynasty[]
| Portrait | Era name | Temple name | Posthumous Name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hongxian | _ | _ | 12 December 1915 - 22 March 1916
(3 months and 10 days) |
Self Proclaimed |
Empire of China[]
Bing Dynasty[]
| Portrait | Era name | Temple name | Posthumous Name | Reign | Succession |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Longxian | Gaozu IX | Wu XV | 12 February 1912 – 19 June 1920
(8 years, 4 months and 7 days) |
Conquest |
|
Qianfeng | Taizong VI | Wu XVI | 19 June 1920 - 6 July 1965
(45 years and 17 days) |
Son |
|
Taijing | Gaozong V | Wen XI | 6 July 1965 - 23 December 2010
(45 years, 5 months and 17 days) |
Son |
|
Mingxuan | Xuanzong V | Jing XIV | 23 December 2010 - 17 September 2018
(7 years, 8 months and 25 days) |
Son |
|
Yuanzhi | Muzong IV | Geng V | 17 September 2018 - 9 January 2050
(31 years, 3 months and 23 days) |
Son |
|
|
Guangzheng | Yingzong IV | An VII | 9 January 2050 – Present | Grandson |
| |||||||||||||||||
