Wu Chao (625-705), known as "The Empress Wu," is considered to be one of the most powerful women in history. That she rose to such an important position at a time when women was commonly relegated to the confines of the family home is a remarkable achievement. That she ruled with competence and ushered in an era of social change that would affect Chinese society for centuries is even more remarkable.

The T'ang dynasty ruled China from 618 to 907. Li Yuan ascended to power following the assassination of Sui Yang-ti, and began the dynasty. His rule was to last only a few years. In 627, his son, Li Shih-min ousted him and usurped the throne. Li Shih-min then assumed the title, T'ang T'ai-tsung. He was determined to solve the internal problems that had burdened previous dynasties. T'ang created a new form of government that consisted of a hierarchy, with the...