---
node: tang
type: period
slug: tang_dynasty
title: "Tang dynasty"
lead: "The Tang dynasty (618–907) was a golden age of Chinese empire and culture. Its capital Chang'an was then one of the world's largest and most cosmopolitan cities."
published: 2026-07-09
updated: 2026-07-09
---

## Overview

Li Yuan founded the Tang in 618 with Chang'an as its capital. Taizong's Zhenguan era set a model of governance, the Silk Road flourished, and Wu Zetian ruled as the only female emperor during the Zhou interregnum of 690–705.

## Key developments

Xuanzang traveled to India for Buddhist scriptures (629–645), and poetry peaked with Li Bai and Du Fu. The An Lushan Rebellion (755–763) broke central power; the late Tang saw autonomous military governors and the Huang Chao rebellion (875–884).

## End and transition

The warlord Zhu Wen deposed the last Tang emperor in 907, ending the dynasty.