Emperor Shizong of Liao facts for kids

Emperor Shizong of Liao (born January 29, 919 – died October 7, 951) was a powerful ruler of the Liao dynasty. His personal name was Wuyu, and he was also known as Yelü Ruan. He was the third emperor of this dynasty, which was led by the Khitan people. The Khitans were a group from Northeast Asia. Emperor Shizong was the grandson of Emperor Taizu, who started the Liao dynasty. He became emperor in 947 after his uncle, Emperor Taizong, passed away.

Becoming Emperor

Emperor Taizong, Shizong's uncle, was leading a military campaign in China when he died in 947. Yelü Ruan, who was with him, quickly gained the support of the army leaders.

However, his grandmother, Empress Dowager Yingtian, had other plans. She wanted her third son, Yelü Lihu, to become emperor. She even sent an army to stop Yelü Ruan as he returned to the capital.

Despite her efforts, the Khitan nobles did not support Yelü Lihu. They knew he was not fit to rule. The strong support for Yelü Ruan from the Liao imperial court prevented a civil war. This allowed Yelü Ruan to become Emperor Shizong without a major conflict.

Emperor Shizong's Reign

Emperor Shizong was known for being generous and a skilled military leader. He was not so generous with his grandmother and uncle, Yelü Lihu. Both were sent away from the capital. Yelü Lihu later died during a rebellion, and Empress Dowager Yingtian died of old age.

In 951, Emperor Shizong led his army to successfully defend against attacks from the south. He was a strong leader who protected his empire.

During his time as emperor, Shizong made important changes. He introduced reforms that helped the Liao dynasty become a more organized society. These changes also helped to centralize power in the government. This meant that the emperor and his main government had more control.

Sadly, Emperor Shizong's reign was short. Just four years after becoming emperor, he was killed. In September 951, a relative named Yelü Chage started a rebellion. Emperor Shizong and his wife, Empress Zhen, were killed in this event. He was only 33 years old and had ruled for just three years.

Family Life

Emperor Shizong had several wives and children. His main wives were Empress Zhen and Empress Huaijie.

• Empress Zhen (died 951)
  • Yelü Zhimo, who became the Prince of Ning.

• Empress Huaijie, whose personal name was Xiao Sagezhi (died 951)
  • Yelü Houabu, the Crown Prince Zhuangsheng.
  • Yelü Xian, who later became Emperor Jingzong.
  • Princess Hegudian, who married Xiao Chuoli.
  • Princess Guanyin, who married Xiao Xiala.
  • Princess Sala, who married Xiao Woli.