Liu Heng is a son of Emperor Gao of Han and Consort Bo, later empress dowager.

When Emperor Gao of Han suppressed the rebellion of Dai, he had created Liu Heng Prince of Dai.

After Empress Dowager Lü's death in 180, the court officials eliminate the powerful Lü clan, and deliberately choose the Prince of Dai as the emperor, since his mother, Consort Bo, has no powerful relatives, and her family is known for its humility and thoughtfulness.

His nephew, Emperor Houshao, viewed as a mere puppet of Grand Empress Dowager Lü and suspected of not being actually a son of Emperor Wen's older brother Emperor Hui, is deposed and executed.

Emperor Wen’s reign brings a much needed political stability that will lay the groundwork for prosperity under his grandson Emperor Wu.