Wealth has always been a measure of influence, with some of history’s most powerful people amassing fortunes that seem unimaginable.

Today, names like Elon Musk and Bill Gates dominate conversations about wealth, but their combined net worth is absolutely nothing compared to one of China’s emperors.

Wu Zetian, better known as Empress Wu, was not only the first and only female emperor of China but also the richest woman to have ever lived.

Her reign during the Tang Dynasty (624–705 AD) saw China control around 23% of the global economy, making her wealth in today’s terms a staggering £12 trillion, according to a report from SCMP.

For comparison, Musk’s net worth is estimated to be around £339 billion and Gates’ at £83 billion. This means that even combined they are worth £11 trillion less than Empress Wu.

China: Wu Zetian (Empress Wu), 624-705, Empress Regnant of the Zhou Dynasty (r.690-705)

Born in Shanxi Province in 624 AD, Wu came from a wealthy family with strong ties to the imperial court.

At just 14, she joined the palace of Emperor Taizong as a secretary, where she gained the education and political skills that would later propel her to power.

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After Emperor Taizong’s death, she became the concubine of his son and successor, Emperor Gaozong.

Her rise to the throne was then full of controversy. She first ruled through others before forcing her son to abdicate and assuming the throne herself.

Once in power, Wu ruled with an iron grip. Wu’s reign reshaped Chinese society, shifting power from military officials to scholars and fostering economic growth.

Her leadership was decisive, and while she was accused of being ruthless – linked to several alleged purges and murders – she maintained control with remarkable efficiency.