Xiao Tabuyan facts for kids

Xiao Tabuyan (Chinese: 蕭塔不煙) was a powerful empress of the Qara Khitai empire. This empire was also known as the Western Liao dynasty. She became empress by marrying her cousin, Yelü Dashi. Some Muslim records called her Kuyang or Orghina. After her husband passed away, she became the regent for her young son, Yelü Yilie. A regent is someone who rules a country when the rightful ruler is too young or unable to. She ruled the empire from 1143 to 1150.

Leading the Empire

After her husband, Yelü Dashi, died in 1143, Xiao Tabuyan took charge. She became the regent for their son, Yelü Yilie, who was still a child. She also changed the official "era date" to Xianqing. An era date is like a special name for a period of time during a ruler's reign. This showed she was now truly in control.

Challenges and Decisions

In March 1144, a group of people called the Oghuz tribes attacked the city of Bukhara. They held control of it for several years. Later that year, the Emperor Xizong of Jin sent a messenger to Xiao Tabuyan. The Jin dynasty was another powerful empire at the time. The messenger, named Zhangge Hannu, arrived in Qara Khitai lands in 1146. He brought a message demanding that Xiao Tabuyan agree to be under the Jin empire's rule. Xiao Tabuyan was very angry about this demand. She immediately had the messenger executed. This showed her strength and refusal to give up her power.

Stepping Down from Power

Xiao Tabuyan continued to rule the empire effectively. She stepped down from her role as regent in 1150. This happened when her son, Yelü Yilie, became old enough to rule on his own.

Her Family

Xiao Tabuyan was an important figure in her family.

Spouse:

• Yelü Dashi (who was also her cousin)

Children:

• Yelü Yilie (her son, who later became the ruler)
• Yelü Pusuwan (her daughter)