When Gaozong died in 683, their son Li Xian became emperor.
Wu, now Empress Dowager, retained control.
When her son showed independence, he was removed and placed under house arrest.
Another son, Li Dan, took the throne—but power remained in her hands.
Some accounts suggest one son died under suspicious circumstances. Whether by her command or palace intrigue remains debated.
Her critics later described her as a mother who sacrificed her children for power.
Supporters argue she acted to preserve political stability in a dangerous court.