In today’s world, Empress Wu’s wealth could surpass the wealth of billionaires Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. Despite her riches, she was also known for her cruelty. 
 

Empress Wu Zetian was the first and only female emperor in Chinese history. She lived from 624 AD to 705 AD. Even today, she is recognized as one of the wealthiest women monarchs.
 

Exact information about Empress Wu’s wealth is not available; however, according to media reports, she purportedly possessed assets of 16 trillion US dollars. 
 

In historical texts, Empress Wu was described as exceptionally beautiful. Her beauty was unmatched, yet she was also known for her cruelty as a ruler. 
 

It’s been rumoured that Empress Wu was an ambitious woman. The rumours suggest that she killed her own children, in order to preserve her hold on the monarchy. 
 

It is rumoured that her thirst for power was so insatiable that she allegedly ordered the deaths of 12 members of the royal family. 
 

Empress Wu also had a reputation as a benefactor to the poor. She ruled China for 15 years, and during her reign, she provided financial assistance to poor families.