Wu Zhao's life By james frusher 638 Wu Zhao becomes concubine of Emperor Taizong. 654 Wu Zhao gives birth to daughter who is murdered; Gaozong's wife found guilty. 683 Wu Zhao takes power when Gaozong dies. 690 Wu Zhao proclaims herself Empress Wu Zetian, ruling under her own authority. 697 Wu Zetian begins to lose power over court and country. 705 Death of Wu Zetian, only female emperor of China.