Emperor Yizong of Western Xia

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Emperor Yizong of Western Xia Emperor of the Western Xia from 1048-1067. After his father's death in 1048, Yizong assumed the throne at the age of one, but most of the power laid in the hands of the Dowager. In 1049, Liao Dynasty attacked Western Xia, and Western Xia was forced to become a vassal state of Liao. In 1056, the Dowager was killed and Yizong's uncle became the regent. In 1061, Yizong's uncle and cousin plotted against him, and Yizong executed them. From this point on, Yizong assumed direct control of Western Xia.

Yizong expanded the central government, adding many offices. He adjusted the armies to make them more efficient and improved his control over faraway states. Yizong began to attack Song Dynasty and raided their villages. He also forced the Turpan leader to surrender. In later years, Yizong began to improve diplomatic relationships with Song and Liao dynasties. He died suddenly in 1067.

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