What kind of spouse should one choose?

 

A President Constantly Hindered by His Spouse's Issues

President Yoon Suk-yeol is the 20th President of South Korea. Having fought against the powers that be and stood for justice, he garnered public support, ultimately leading to his presidency. However, both before and after the election, he has faced attacks from the opposition party, not because of his own actions but due to issues related to his wife. As the First Lady, she was expected to uphold a certain level of dignity, but she has failed to meet these expectations. Every time political conflicts arise between the ruling and opposition parties, her name gets entangled, leading to various suspicions surfacing. With the media spotlight focused on the First Lady, President Yoon’s approval ratings have been declining. He has faced numerous difficulties due to his spouse. In contrast, let's explore historical figures who supported their spouses and helped them govern effectively.

Empress Zhangsun, Who Supported Emperor Taizong During the "Reign of Zhenguan"

Empress Zhangsun was the wife of Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty and is considered one of the most exemplary empresses in Chinese history. From a young age, she was known for her love of learning and her virtuous conduct. As empress, her behavior was highly commendable. For example, when the wet nurse of Crown Prince Li Chengqian requested more resources, claiming that the palace lacked supplies, Empress Zhangsun responded, “What the Crown Prince should worry about is lacking virtue and honor, not a lack of material possessions.” She also opposed appointing her brother, Zhangsun Wuji, as a prime minister. She treated eunuchs and maids with respect and was not afraid to offer advice to Emperor Taizong when necessary. One of the most famous stories involves Wei Zheng, the highest-ranking chancellor of the Tang Dynasty, who never hesitated to offer direct criticism to the emperor. One day, after a meeting, Emperor Taizong returned to the palace and angrily told the empress that he wanted to kill Wei Zheng. Empress Zhangsun calmly asked why, to which the emperor replied, “Wei Zheng humiliates me in public all the time!” A short while later, the empress retired to her chambers, dressed formally, and then returned to the emperor’s side. Surprised, Emperor Taizong asked what was happening. She replied, “The most virtuous emperors always listen to their loyal ministers. Wei Zheng advises you because he knows you are a wise ruler. How could I not congratulate you?” Her words calmed Emperor Taizong’s anger, and Wei Zheng was not punished. Empress Zhangsun lived modestly and never mistreated her servants, becoming known as one of China’s greatest empresses. Her support helped make Emperor Taizong’s reign, known as the "Reign of Zhenguan," one of the most prosperous and well-governed periods in Chinese history.

 

Empress Ma, Who Helped Found the Ming Dynasty with Zhu Yuanzhang

Empress Ma was the wife of Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and she played a key role in his rise to power. Coming from a poor and humble background, Empress Ma’s father, Ma Gong, passed away due to illness. Upon hearing this, Guo Zixing, a military leader and friend of her father, took pity on her and adopted her as his daughter. She was intelligent, having studied from a young age, and her kind nature earned Guo Zixing’s affection. Guo intended to marry her off to one of his subordinates, but Empress Ma insisted on choosing her own husband, ultimately selecting Zhu Yuanzhang, an orphan who was known for his unattractive appearance. Despite the challenges they faced, the couple built a happy life together under Guo Zixing’s protection. However, Guo’s children grew jealous of Zhu Yuanzhang’s talents and falsely accused him of plotting treason. They imprisoned him and tried to starve him to death. Empress Ma secretly brought him food, saving his life. Eventually, Zhu was cleared of all charges, and thanks to his wife’s support, he went on to overthrow the Yuan Dynasty and establish the Ming Dynasty. Zhu, known for his fiery temper, was able to lay the foundation for a 277-year-long dynasty largely due to Empress Ma’s steadfast support.

 

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