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Emperor Taizong (November 20, 939 - May 8, 997), born Zhao Kuangyi, was the second emperor of the Song Dynasty of China from 976 to 997. He was the younger brother of Emperor Taizu (both born of the same mother). During his reign as emperor, Song Taizong was a hardworking and diligent emperor. He paid much attention to the well being of his people and the Song dynasty became stronger. His only set back was that Taizong failed twice in trying to subdue the Liao people of the north. These failures prompted internal rebellions which were quickly suppressed. The Liao dynasty of the north would also come to plague the Song dynasty in the ensuing centuries. Song Taizong's accession to the throne have been shrouded in mystery, with claims that he murdered his elder brother, the Emperor Taizu and seized the throne. These allegations have not yet been proven as facts. Taizong died in 997 after a reign of 21 years and was succeeded by his son. He was 57. His temple name means "Grand Ancestor".
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