Yang Pu, Chinese emperor (b. 900)

The Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (907–960 CE) was a tumultuous era in Chinese history, characterized by political fragmentation and rapid dynastic shifts following the collapse of the Tang Dynasty. Within this turbulent landscape, the State of Wu emerged as one of the Ten Kingdoms in the Yangtze River region.

Yang Pu (Chinese: 楊溥; 900 – January 21, 939 CE), posthumously honored as Emperor Rui of Wu (吳睿帝), holds a distinctive position in this period. He was the final ruler of the State of Wu, and uniquely, the only leader of Wu to ever formally claim the prestigious title of Emperor. This imperial claim set him apart from his predecessors in Wu, who typically ruled under the title of King, reflecting a bolder assertion of legitimacy amidst the fragmented political scene.

However, despite his official imperial title, Yang Pu's reign was largely symbolic. The true political and military authority rested firmly in the hands of a succession of powerful regents. Initially, this control was exercised by the formidable general Xu Wen. Upon Xu Wen's death, his equally ambitious and politically astute adoptive son and designated successor, Xu Zhigao, inherited this paramount influence, effectively governing the state behind the imperial facade.

The regents' de facto control ultimately led to the inevitable conclusion of Wu's independence. In 938 CE, Xu Zhigao, having solidified his power and established an unassailable position, compelled Yang Pu to formally yield the imperial throne to him. This act of forced abdication marked the definitive end of the State of Wu.

Immediately following Yang Pu's abdication, Xu Zhigao cemented his newly acquired authority by establishing his own imperial dynasty, known as Southern Tang. This transition not only extinguished the State of Wu but also ushered in a new powerful entity in the southern regions of China, further illustrating the dynamic and often ruthless power struggles characteristic of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yang Pu and the State of Wu

Who was Yang Pu?

Yang Pu was the last ruler of the State of Wu during China's Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. He was the only Wu ruler to claim the title of emperor, distinguishing him from his predecessors who were kings.

What was the significance of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period?

It was a period of political disunity and fragmentation in China from 907 to 960 CE, following the fall of the Tang Dynasty. Various short-lived dynasties succeeded each other in the north (the Five Dynasties), while several independent kingdoms (the Ten Kingdoms) emerged in the south and west.

Who truly held power during Yang Pu's reign?

Despite Yang Pu's imperial title, effective control of the State of Wu rested with powerful regents: initially Xu Wen, and later his adoptive son and successor, Xu Zhigao. They managed the state's affairs, military, and administration.

What happened to Yang Pu and the State of Wu?

In 938 CE, Yang Pu was compelled by Xu Zhigao to abdicate the throne. Following this forced abdication, Xu Zhigao established his own dynasty, the Southern Tang, which effectively absorbed and ended the State of Wu.

What was the Southern Tang dynasty?

The Southern Tang was a significant and relatively long-lived kingdom (937–976 CE) established by Xu Zhigao after he usurped the throne from Yang Pu. It became one of the most culturally and economically prominent states during the Ten Kingdoms period.