Emperor Yizong of Western Xia


Emperor Yizong, born Li Liangzuo 李諒祚, was the 2nd emperor of the Western Xia. After the death of his father, Li Yuanhao, in 1048, Yizong assumed the throne at the age of one, but most of the power laid in the hands of his mother the Dowager Empress. In 1049, the Liao Dynasty attacked Western Xia and forced it to become a vassal state. In 1056, the Dowager was killed and Yizong's uncle, Mozang Epang, became the regent. In 1061, Yizong's uncle and cousin plotted against him, so he had them executed and assumed direct control of Western Xia.
Yizong expanded the central government, adding many offices. He made the armies more efficient and improved his control over faraway states. Yizong began to attack Song Dynasty and raided their villages. He also forced the Turpan leader to surrender. In later years, Yizong began to improve diplomatic relationships with the Song and Liao dynasties. He died suddenly in 1068.

Eras of Emperor Yizong