Empress Mao (Former Qin)

Empress Mao (毛皇后, personal name unknown, but likely a member of the Mao clan) was an empress of the Chinese state Former Qin during the reign of her husband, Emperor Xuanzhao (Fu Jian). She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and active participation in state affairs, and is often considered one of the more prominent empresses of the Sixteen Kingdoms period.

Little is known about Empress Mao's early life before becoming empress. Fu Jian, impressed by her beauty and wisdom, chose her as his empress sometime after he declared himself emperor in 357 CE.

Empress Mao was more than just a figurehead. She actively advised Fu Jian on matters of state and military strategy. Historical accounts portray her as insightful and articulate, and Fu Jian often valued her counsel. Some chronicles suggest that her opinions influenced key decisions during his reign, though the extent of her influence remains a subject of historical debate.

Empress Mao's life was cut short when she was murdered in 383 CE. According to historical texts, she was assassinated by a jealous concubine, Princess Zhang, who had also attempted to frame other concubines. Fu Jian, deeply grieved by her death, executed Princess Zhang.

Empress Mao's legacy lies in her reputation as a politically astute and influential figure within the Former Qin court. Her active involvement in state affairs, a relatively uncommon role for empresses of the time, has cemented her place in history. She is remembered as an intelligent and capable woman who played a significant role in the Former Qin dynasty during her lifetime.