In the early 7th century, China was in a state of turmoil. The Sui Dynasty, which had unified the country after centuries of fragmentation, was crumbling. Regional warlords and power-hungry nobles were vying for control, plunging the country into chaos.It was in this tumultuous landscape that the Tang Dynasty emerged, destined to become one of the greatest periods in Chinese history. Founded by Emperor Gaozu (also known as Li Yuan) in 618 CE, the Tang Dynasty would rule China for nearly three centuries, leaving an indelible mark on the country's politics, culture, economy, and society.

Early Years and Consolidation

Gaozu, a former Sui general, seized power after a series of military victories against rival warlords. He established his capital in Chang'an (modern-day Xi'an), which would become one of the largest and most cosmopolitan cities in the world.Gaozu's early years were marked by consolidation and reform. He centralized power, reorganized the bureaucracy, and promoted agriculture, commerce, and education. He also launched a series of military campaigns to expand the empire's borders, incorporating territories in modern-day Korea, Vietnam, and Central Asia.