After becoming empress, Wu did not remain passive.
She involved herself in governance directly:
She reviewed memorials.
She advised the emperor on policy.
She supported officials based on merit rather than aristocratic lineage.
This angered powerful noble families who had long monopolized office.
When Gaozong suffered debilitating strokes in the 660s, Wu effectively became co-ruler.
She sat behind a screen during court sessions, listening and deciding.
She expanded the imperial examination system, allowing talented commoners to enter government. This strengthened central authority and weakened aristocratic clans.
She promoted Buddhism, which provided ideological support for her legitimacy. Buddhist texts were interpreted to predict the coming of a female universal ruler.
Religion became politics.