156-87? B.C.

Chinese Emperor

During Wu-ti's reign, he expanded China's borders and influence through most of the world known to China. Because of this, he went down in history as one of the greatest emperors of China's Han Dynasty. After his death he was given the name Wu-ti, which means "martial emperor," in honor of his victories.

Wu-ti was born Liu Ch'e about 156 B.C., the son of Emperor Ching-ti. He was definitely not the eldest son of the emperor, in fact he is believed to have been son number 11, making him far from first in line to ascend to the throne. However, by his seventh birthday relatives assured his status as heir apparent, and he succeeded the throne in 140 or 141 about the age of 15.

For the first several years of his reign, Wu-ti was heavily influenced by his relatives, who urged a more moderate, defensive approach...