Yuwen Hu
Powerful minister of Northern Zhou who killed two emperors in succession; after dominating the government for 15 years he was killed by Emperor Wu of Zhou.
Life
Entrusted with the Heir
Yuwen Hu was Yuwen Tai's nephew. On his deathbed Yuwen Tai entrusted his affairs to him. In 557 he forced Emperor Gong of Western Wei to abdicate and installed Yuwen Tai's son Yuwen Jue, founding the Northern Zhou.
Killed Two Emperors in a Row
Yuwen Jue resented his domination and was deposed and killed by him; he then installed Yuwen Yu and soon poisoned him; next he installed Yuwen Yong (Emperor Wu of Zhou). In all he held power for 15 years.
Jade Tablet Incident
Emperor Wu of Zhou appeared outwardly deferential while secretly building up his strength. In 572, when Yuwen Hu entered the palace to pay respects to the empress dowager, Emperor Wu struck him down from behind with a jade tablet and had him killed, thereby beginning his personal rule.
Legacy
Yuwen Hu made the founding of the Northern Zhou possible, yet he also monopolized power and murdered emperors; his downfall freed Emperor Wu of Zhou to pursue his ambitions and ultimately destroy the Northern Qi.
Major works & achievements
- Enthroned the founder of Northern Zhou
Did you know? He was struck down inside the palace by the emperor himself, with a jade tablet.
Key dates
- 557Installed Yuwen Jue and founded the Northern Zhou
- 557Deposed and killed Yuwen Jue
- 560Poisoned Emperor Ming of Zhou
- 572Killed by Emperor Wu of Zhou