AdvertisementAdvertisementNEWSCMP Lifestyle SeriesThe most powerful women in China’s historyIn ancient China, women were expected to be obedient and chaste. But throughout millennia, some dared defy traditions with their intellect and ambition. In this series, we profile some of the most powerful and enigmatic female figures in Chinese history. Updated: 05 May, 2026Advertisement[1]Beautiful, power-hungry: how Wu Zetian became China’s only female emperorA legitimate ruler for 15 years – but de facto leader for years more than that – Wu Zetian is