Han Ruler and Emperor Biographies
Authoring and Translation by
After the death of Emperor He Di, the three month old Liu Long was put on the throne by Empress-dowager Deng. The child was chosen over two older brothers of Liu Long, who were born from a consort. This was done to prolong the rule of the Empress-dowager’s family. Knowing that a child, let alone a baby could not rule, the Han Empress’ power would be solidified.
Liu Long was a weak baby, and died before he reached the age of one. He was immortalized as Shang Di, and his twelve-year-old cousin Liu Yu was placed on the throne next.
Copyright © 2002 - 2003
Major Sources: Hou Han shu (Fan Ye)
Ancient Chinese History and Emperors (Brian Williams)
with notes from William Ho and Quentin Tran