The historical wealth of Empress Wu, known as Wu Zetian, surpasses that of modern billionaires, including Elon Musk and Donald Trump. With an estimated net worth of around £12 trillion in today’s terms, her fortune represents a staggering £11 trillion more than the combined wealth of Musk and Trump. This significant disparity highlights the vast scale of her influence during her reign in China’s Tang Dynasty.
According to the South China Morning Post, Empress Wu’s wealth originated from her position during a period when China accounted for approximately 23% of the global economy. Born in 624 AD in Shanxi Province, she entered the imperial court at a young age. By 14, she had become a secretary to Emperor Taizong, gaining an education that was rare for women at the time. Following the emperor’s death, she became a concubine to his son, Emperor Gaozong, and began her ascent to power.
Wu’s rise to the throne was marked by controversy. She initially wielded power behind the scenes before orchestrating her son’s abdication in 690 AD, when she officially declared herself emperor. Her reign lasted for 15 years, during which she was known for both her strict governance and significant reforms. While historical accounts often depict her as ruthless, linking her to political purges and executions, she also implemented policies that strengthened China’s economy and promoted education.
Empress Wu’s tenure ended with her death in 705 AD at the age of 81. Her legacy, characterized by both achievements and controversies, has solidified her status as the wealthiest woman in history, eclipsing the fortunes of contemporary figures like Musk, whose net worth is currently estimated at $677 billion, and Trump, valued at around $7.3 billion.
In a world where wealth is often a measure of success, Empress Wu’s remarkable fortune serves as a reminder of the economic power wielded by historical figures. As discussions about wealth continue to focus on modern billionaires, the extraordinary riches of Wu Zetian remain unmatched, prompting a reflection on the influence of women in history.
