Emperor Gaozu (256 or 247 – 1 June 195 BC), commonly known by his
temple name Gaozu, personal name
Liu Bang,
courtesy name Ji, was the founder and first emperor of the
Han dynasty. He ruled China from 202–195 BC. Gaozu was one of the few dynasty founders in Chinese history originating from the peasant class. During his reign, Liu Bang reduced taxes and
corvée, promoted
Confucianism, and suppressed revolts by the rulers of some
vassal states, among other things. He also initiated the policy of
heqin to maintain peace between the Han Empire and the
Xiongnu after he lost to the Xiongnu at the
Battle of Baideng in 200 BC. Liu Bang died in 195 BC and was succeeded by his son, Liu Ying (
Emperor Hui).