Part 13

Explore China's strengths in Civilization V, including the Paper Maker and Chu-Ku-No unit. Learn about the historical figure Wu Zetian, the only female Emperor of China.

China is a powerful nation in Civilization V. Its unique building, the Paper Maker, provides a significant boost to gold reserves each turn. The Chu-Ku-No, a unique ranged unit, can attack twice, making it highly effective at eliminating threats like Longswordsmen from a distance. The unique technology, The Art of War, allows for quicker acquisition of Great Generals, which are crucial for building Citadels and initiating Golden Ages.

Wu Zetian - History

China's history has been largely male-dominated, with women historically having few rights and little direct power. Wu Zetian stands as a singular exception, becoming the only woman in Chinese history to attain the rank of Emperor. She was a remarkably influential ruler.

Born around 626 AD, Wu became a concubine to Emperor Taizong at age 13. After his death in 649 AD, she became a Buddhist nun. However, she was later recalled to the palace by Empress Wang to serve as a consort to Emperor Gaozong, in an attempt to distract him from another consort. This strategy proved too successful, as Wu Zetian eventually supplanted both Empress Wang and the other consort, becoming Empress herself. Some historians suggest she may have murdered her own infant daughter to frame the Empress.

As Empress Consort, Wu Zetian consolidated her power through alliances and the elimination of rivals. She proved to be an able administrator and advisor, and by 660 AD, with Emperor Gaozong suffering from illness, she managed much of the empire's affairs. Upon Gaozong's death in 683 AD, she was the de facto ruler of China.

When her son, Emperor Zhongzong, showed signs of independence, Wu Zetian deposed him and installed her younger son, Ruizong, as Emperor, keeping him under strict control. In 690 AD, Wu Zetian took the throne herself, reducing Ruizong to Crown Prince. She ruthlessly suppressed opposition, expanding the secret police. She reigned for about 15 years until, at age 80 and seriously ill, she was deposed and died later that year.

Wu Zetian is remembered as an able administrator and a shrewd judge of character. She promoted loyal and capable men, leading to military successes such as the conquest of Korea. Her early reign was marked by repression, but as she secured her power, she became more moderate, earning grudging praise even from her enemies.