Emperor Wenxuan of Northern Qi

Reign: 550 – 559
Life: 526–559

Following the death of his brother and Gao Huan's designated successor and eldest son Gao Cheng in 549, Gao Yang became the regent of Eastern Wei. In 550, he forced the Emperor Xiaojing of Eastern Wei to yield the throne to him, ending the Eastern Wei dynasty and starting the Northern Qi dynasty. Early in Emperor Wenxuan's reign, he was known for attentiveness to military matters, and the strength of the Northern Qi military was at its prime. He entrusted most governmental matters to the capable Yang Yin, and for a while, the government was effective, and the military was strong.

During Emperor Wenxuan of Northern Qi's reign, Justinian I ruled Rome, Emperor Kinmei ruled Japan, and Pope Vigilius ruled Papacy.

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China: A History by John Keay

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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