Xiao Wen facts for kids
Xiao Wen was an important empress from a long time ago. She was part of the Liao dynasty, which was led by the Khitan people. Her official title was Empress Jing'an, which means "the meek and peaceful empress." She was married to Emperor Taizong, whose personal name was Yelü Deguang. She passed away on February 18, 935.
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Early Life and Family
It is not known exactly when Xiao Wen was born. Her father was the younger brother of Empress Shulü Ping. Empress Shulü Ping was the wife of Emperor Taizu of Liao, who started the Liao dynasty.
The Xiao Family Name
The Liao dynasty had a special tradition for family names. The emperors' family, the Yelü clan, took the Chinese name Liu. This was because they admired Emperor Gao of Han, who founded the Han Dynasty.
The families of the empresses often took the surname Xiao. This was named after Xiao He, a famous prime minister from the Han Dynasty. So, most empresses of the Liao dynasty were named Xiao.
Marriage to Yelü Deguang
Xiao Wen married Yelü Deguang before he became emperor. At that time, he held a high military title called Generalissimo. They likely got married around 923 or a little later. This was before his father, Emperor Taizu, passed away in 926.
Life as Empress
After Emperor Taizu died in 926, Yelü Deguang became the new emperor in 927. He was known as Emperor Taizong. He chose Xiao Wen to be his empress soon after he became ruler.
Empress Xiao's Qualities
Empress Xiao was known for being very smart and good. People said she was also careful with money and didn't waste things. Emperor Taizong liked her very much. She even went with him on military trips and hunting adventures.
Her Children and Passing
Empress Xiao gave birth to Emperor Taizong's first son, Yelü Jing, in 931. In early 935, she had her second son, Yelü Yanchege. After giving birth, she became very ill. She passed away about a month later.
Her first special name after death was Zhangde, meaning "displayed virtue." Later, Emperor Xingzong gave her the final name Jing'an, which is how we know her today.
