Longyu

Longyu refers to Empress Dowager Longyu, a prominent figure in the late Qing Dynasty of China. Born in 1868, she was a member of the Yehe Nara clan and became a consort to the Guangxu Emperor. She was later elevated to the rank of Empress. Despite her imperial title, her influence during the emperor's reign was limited, as the real power was held by Empress Dowager Cixi.

Following the Guangxu Emperor's death in 1908, Longyu became the Empress Dowager. She was instrumental in the abdication of the last emperor, Puyi, in 1912, effectively ending over two thousand years of imperial rule in China. This act was carried out under her authority, though it is widely believed she was heavily influenced by Yuan Shikai, a powerful military official.

Empress Dowager Longyu lived a relatively secluded life during her time as Empress and later Empress Dowager. She was known for her quiet demeanor and was not as politically active as her predecessor, Cixi. Her role in the final moments of the Qing Dynasty, however, cemented her place in Chinese history. She died in 1913, less than a year after the imperial system was abolished. Her legacy is primarily associated with the peaceful transition of power during the Xinhai Revolution.