The Tang Long Coup: The Power Struggle between Li Longji and Princess Taiping and Its Record in "Zizhi Tongjian"

Brief Introduction

The Tang Long Coup was a turning point in Tang Dynasty history, occurring in the fourth year of Jinglong (710 AD) during the reign of Emperor Shaodi Li Chongmao. This coup was launched by the Prince of Linzi, Li Longji (later Emperor Xuanzong of Tang), in alliance with Princess Taiping. They successfully eliminated the Empress Wei group, who had attempted to emulate Wu Zetian in claiming the throne. The coup ended the chaotic rule of the Wei clan, restored the orthodox rule of the Li Tang Dynasty, and laid the foundation for the subsequent "Kaiyuan Prosperity."

Core Knowledge Points

1. Background of the Coup: After Emperor Zhongzong Li Xian returned to power, Empress Wei and Princess Anle dominated politics. They even poisoned Zhongzong, installed the young Li Chongmao as emperor, and had Empress Wei assume regency. This sparked dissatisfaction among the imperial clan and court officials.
2. Key Figures:
* Li Longji: The actual commander of the coup, demonstrating exceptional military talent and political boldness.
* Princess Taiping: Daughter of Wu Zetian, providing political support and resources; she was a key ally for the success of the coup.
* Empress Wei Group: Including Empress Wei, Princess Anle, and Wu Yanxiu, viewed as the targets to be eliminated during the coup.
3. Process of the Coup: Li Longji plotted the strategy in secret, led the imperial guards to attack the Daming Palace, killed Empress Wei and her followers, and took control of the imperial palace.
4. Historical Outcome: The child emperor was deposed, and the Prince of Xiang, Li Dan, ascended the throne (Emperor Ruizong of Tang). Li Longji was established as the Crown Prince. Princess Taiping's power reached its peak, but this also sowed the seeds of future conflict with Li Longji.

Connection with "Zizhi Tongjian" Content

Sima Guang provided a detailed record of the Tang Long Coup in the Zizhi Tongjian·Tang Ji, accompanied by distinct value judgments.
* Orthodox Concept: The book strongly emphasizes the dangers of Empress Wei's "chaotic rule" and defines Li Longji's actions as "restoring the state," aligning with Confucian orthodox political views.
Narrative Details: The Zizhi Tongjian supplements the planning process on the night before the coup, which was not detailed in the Old Book of Tang*, showcasing Li Longji's decisiveness and spirit of adventure.
* Historical Context: This record is located at a critical node where the Tang Dynasty transitioned from chaos to order. Through this event, Sima Guang reveals the crises in imperial succession and provides the historical logical groundwork for the subsequent "Xiantian Coup," where Li Longji completely eliminated Princess Taiping's influence.

Historical Significance

The Tang Long Coup was not only the starting point of Li Longji's political career but also marked the end of the era of female political interference in the Tang Dynasty. Through the lens of the Zizhi Tongjian, we can better understand the historical status of this event in maintaining the orthodoxy of the Li Tang Dynasty, as well as the complex family power games behind it. This event signified the shift of Tang political focus from harem interference back to the male imperial succession system, profoundly influencing the political direction for the next half-century.