Lady Mozang facts for kids
Lady Mozang (died 1056) was an important woman in the ancient kingdom of Western Xia. She was known by her special title, Empress Xuanmu Huiwen. Lady Mozang was a wife of Emperor Jingzong of Western Xia. Later, she became the ruler of Western Xia from 1048 to 1056. This happened when her son, Emperor Yizong of Western Xia, was too young to rule by himself.
Contents
Her Life Story
Family and Background
Lady Mozang came from the powerful Mozang family, a well-known group among the Tangut people.
- Her older brother was Mozang Epang. He was a very important advisor in the government starting in 1046.
- Her niece, who was Mozang Epang's daughter, later became an empress to Emperor Yizong of Western Xia.
Time with Emperor Jingzong
We don't know exactly when Lady Mozang was born or when she first joined the imperial palace. She was known for being very beautiful and a clever woman. Before she became part of Emperor Jingzong's court, Lady Mozang was married to Yeli Yuqi. He was the brother of another empress, Empress Xiancheng.
In 1047, Empress Xiancheng was removed from her position. This event helped Lady Mozang become more important to Emperor Jingzong. On March 5, 1047, Lady Mozang gave birth to a son named Ningling Liangcha, also known as Liangzuo.
Ruling for Emperor Yizong
After Emperor Jingzong passed away, his young son, Li Liangzuo, became the new emperor. Since Liangzuo was only one year old, Lady Mozang and her brother, Mozang Epang, took charge of the kingdom. As the emperor's mother, Lady Mozang received the special title of Empress Dowager. Her brother, Epang, had great power in the government because he was the emperor's uncle. Lady Mozang and Epang were responsible for raising the young emperor.
Her Final Days
In 1056, the Empress Dowager went on a hunting trip in the Helan Mountains. During this trip, she became very ill. Her servants brought her back towards the capital city. Sadly, Lady Mozang passed away on the way. She was later honored with the special title Empress Xuanmuhuiwen.
