Li Ke, prince of the Tang Dynasty

An Imperial Prince of the Tang Dynasty

Born in 619, Li Ke (Chinese: 李恪; pinyin: Lǐ Kè) was a prominent imperial prince during the illustrious Tang Dynasty. Posthumously known as the Prince of Yùlín (鬱林王), he was more commonly recognized throughout his lifetime by his greater and more celebrated designation, the Prince of Wú (吳王).

A Contender for the Crown

As a highly respected and favored son of Emperor Taizong, one of China's most revered rulers, Li Ke unexpectedly found himself navigating the complex and often perilous world of imperial succession. In 643, a significant upheaval within the Tang court led to the deposition of both his older brother, Li Chengqian, and his younger brother, Li Tai, creating a vacancy for the heir apparent. During this critical period, Li Ke emerged as a serious and viable candidate for the coveted role of crown prince.

However, the intricate web of court politics and powerful familial influence ultimately guided the succession in a different direction. Despite Li Ke's merits and his father's apparent favor, the throne was eventually destined for his younger brother, Li Zhi. This pivotal decision was largely influenced by Li Zhi's powerful lineage, being the son of Emperor Taizong's principal consort, Empress Zhangsun. The unwavering insistence of Empress Zhangsun's brother, Zhangsun Wuji – a highly influential figure who was also Emperor Taizong's brother-in-law – proved decisive. Consequently, Li Zhi was created crown prince and, following Emperor Taizong's death in 649, ascended the throne as Emperor Gaozong.

The Shadow of Zhangsun Wuji

The powerful Zhangsun Wuji harbored a deep-seated personal animosity towards Li Ke, a sentiment that would ultimately seal the prince's tragic fate. In 653, just four years into Emperor Gaozong's reign, Zhangsun Wuji seized an opportunity to eliminate his rival. He meticulously implicated Li Ke in an alleged plot involving the official Fang Yi'ai (房遺愛). Under the immense weight of Zhangsun Wuji's influence and these grave accusations, Emperor Gaozong was compelled to issue a decree ordering his own brother, Li Ke, to commit suicide. This brought an abrupt and sorrowful end to the life of the esteemed Prince of Wú on March 10, 653.