Wu Zetian's Reign and Legacy

Wu Zetian was the only woman to rule China as a sovereign Empress. Born during the Tang Dynasty, she rose from a maidservant to Empress through intelligence and strategic alliances. Her reign was marked by significant reforms, including infrastructure development and promoting Buddhism. Despite her authoritarian rule, she pushed for gender equality and education. Wu Zetian's legacy is complex, as she is both criticized for her ruthless tactics and praised for her effective leadership.

What skills was Wu Zetian encouraged to learn during her childhood?

• Painting and calligraphy

• Cooking and sewing

• Dancing and singing

• Martial arts and archery

How did Wu Zetian initially gain influence in the Imperial Palace?

• By becoming a favorite concubine of Emperor Taizong

• By leading a successful military campaign

• By marrying a high-ranking official

• By being appointed as a government minister

What was Wu Zetian's strategy to become Empress?

• She led a rebellion against the Emperor

• She accused Empress Wang of a crime

• She bribed the court officials

• She married a foreign prince

What dynasty did Wu Zetian establish during her reign?

• Ming Dynasty

• Zhou Dynasty

• Han Dynasty

• Tang Dynasty

Which of the following was a significant reform implemented by Wu Zetian?

• Abolishing the examination system

• Promoting gender equality

• Banning foreign trade

• Establishing a new currency

How did Wu Zetian contribute to the spread of Buddhism?

• By building temples and sponsoring translations of sacred texts

• By declaring it the state religion

• By sending missionaries to other countries

• By writing Buddhist scriptures

What was one of the challenges Wu Zetian faced during her rule?

• A foreign invasion

• A plague outbreak

• A severe drought

• An uprising led by her nephew

How is Wu Zetian's leadership style often described?

• Democratic and lenient

• Authoritarian and implacable

• Indecisive and weak

• Charismatic and popular

What was Wu Zetian's approach to handling opposition?

• She exiled them to distant lands

• She used censorship and a spy network

• She ignored them

• She negotiated with her opponents

What is Wu Zetian's legacy in Chinese history?

• She is celebrated as a national hero

• She is remembered as a benevolent ruler

• She is seen as a controversial and complex figure

• She is forgotten in most historical accounts