China
The title is named in Chinese as Taishang Huang (Chinese: 太上皇; pinyin: tàishàng huáng; Wade–Giles: T'ai4-shang4 Huang2). The title originated, however, from Liu Bang (Emperor Gao of Han)'s father Liu Taigong, who was honored as such after Liu Bang declared himself emperor in 202, even though Liu Taigong was never emperor himself.
Instances of Chinese rulers who were granted the title Taishang Huang:
- Zhuangxiang of Qin (posthumously honored by his son the First Emperor, he died as King of Qin)
- Liu Taigong
- Emperor Hui of Jin
- Lü Guang
- Emperor Xianwen of Northern Wei
- Emperor Wucheng of Northern Qi
- Gao Wei
- Emperor Xuan of Northern Zhou
- Emperor Yang of Sui
- Emperor Gaozu of Tang, who abdicated in 626 and was made Taishang Huang until his death in 635.
- Wu Zetian
- Emperor Ruizong of Tang, who abdicated in 712 and was made Taishang Huang until his death in 716.
- Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, who abdicated in 756 and was made Taishang Huang until his death in 762.
- Emperor Shunzong of Tang
- Emperor Zhaozong of Tang
- Emperor Huizong of Song
- Emperor Gaozong of Song
- Emperor Xiaozong of Song
- Emperor Guangzong of Song
- Emperor Shenzong of Western Xia
- Zhengtong Emperor (Yingzong) of Ming from his capture by the Mongols in 1449 until his return to the throne in 1457.
- Qianlong Emperor (Gaozong) of Qing, who abdicated in 1796 and was made Taishang Huang until his death in 1799.
Read more about this topic: Retired Emperor (title)
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