Gao Zu, Chinese emperor (born 566)

Emperor Gaozu of Tang

Emperor of China from 618 to 626

Emperor Gaozu of Tang, born Li Yuan, courtesy name Shude, was the founding emperor of the Tang dynasty of China, reigning from 618 to 626 CE. Under the Sui dynasty, Li Yuan was the governor in the area of modern-day Shanxi, and was based in Taiyuan.