Emperor Wenxuan of (Northern) Qi
1st emperor of the Chinese dynasty Northern Qi
Years: 529 - 559
Emperor Wenxuan of (Northern) Qi (529–559), personal name Gao Yang, courtesy name Zijin , is the first emperor of the Chinese dynasty Northern Qi.
He is the second son of Eastern Wei's paramount general Gao Huan, and at the death of his brother and Gao Huan's designated successor Gao Cheng in 549 becomes the regent of Eastern Wei.
In 550, he forces Emperor Xiaojing of Eastern Wei to yield the throne to him, ending Eastern Wei and starting Northern Qi.
Early in Emperor Wenxuan's reign, he is known for attentiveness to military matters, and the strength of the Northern Qi military is at its prime.
He also tries to equalize the tax burden and reduce corruption by offering officials sufficient salary.
He entrusts most governmental matters to the capable Yang Yin, and for a while, the government is effective, and the military is strong.
However, Emperor Wenxuan eventually turns cruel, and his erratic behavior, fueled by alcoholism, plunges his administration into chaos.
