Li Shimin was the second emperor of the Tang Dynasty and one of the most outstanding emperors in Chinese history. During his reign, he humbly accepted advice, ruled the world with culture, strictly practiced economy, persuaded agriculture and mulberry, and created the "rule of Zhenguan", which made the society appear stable and laid an important foundation for the later "Kaiyuan Prosperous Era". However, in his later years, Li Shimin began to become extravagant and indulgent, and he built a large number of buildings, palaces and mausoleums, which increased the burden on the people. He was also superstitious about pills and pursued immortality, which led to a gradual deterioration in his physical condition. Eventually, in 649 AD, Li Shimin died of illness at the age of fifty-two. So, why did Li Shimin indulge in extravagance and indulge in pills in his later years?
1. Old age and frailty
When Li Shimin was young, he was brave and good at fighting, and made great contributions to the establishment and unification of the Tang Dynasty. But as he grew older, his physical condition gradually deteriorated, and he often fell ill. In order to prolong his lifespan, he began to be superstitious about pills, believing that pills would make him immortal.
Second, the throne is stable
During Li Shimin's reign, he implemented a series of reform measures, strengthened the centralization of power, and consolidated his throne. His rule was also embraced and supported by the people. As a result, he believed that his throne was secure, and that he was not as frugal and diligent as he had been in his youth.
3. Personal pleasure
In his later years, Li Shimin also began to pursue personal pleasures, he liked **, dance and literature, and often held banquets and entertainment activities. He also built many luxurious palaces and gardens for himself and his harem to enjoy.
Fourth, the change of thinking
Li Shimin's thinking also changed in his later years, and he began to become superstitious and conservative. He believes that his achievements are great enough that he does not need to be reformed and innovated. He also developed a keen interest in Buddhism and Taoism, believing that these religions could help him gain the ability to live forever.
Fifth, the crown prince competes for the throne
In his later years, Li Shimin faced the problem of competing for the crown prince, and several of his sons fought fiercely for the throne. This also made Li Shimin feel haggard, and he began to indulge in pills, hoping to solve problems with the help of pills.
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In general, there are many reasons why Li Shimin was extravagant and addicted to pills in his later years. His actions also had a certain impact on the politics and society of the Tang Dynasty. As a historical figure, we should look at his life holistically, both affirming his merits and criticizing his mistakes.