Japan's last female monarch, she reigned from 1762 to 1770 and is remembered for her efforts to reform the imperial court and promote cultural development.
Empress GoSakuramachi, posthumously honored as GoSakuramachitennō, is renowned as the 117th monarch of Japan, reigning from 1762 to 1771. She holds a significant place in Japanese history as the last empress regnant, a title she earned due to her father Emperor Sakuramachi, with the word "go" before her name translating to "later" or "second one."
Born on September 23, 1740, as Toshiko, Empress GoSakuramachi was the second daughter of Emperor Sakuramachi and her mother, Nijō Ieko. She had an older sister who died at a young age and a brother named Tōhito, who later became Emperor Momozono upon the death of their father in 1747.
Empress GoSakuramachi's reign, although brief, was marked by an unsuccessful plot to restore imperial powers and displace the shogunate. This event, though unsuccessful, highlights her position as a strong leader who attempted to reassert the emperor's authority. Following her abdication in 1771, her nephew succeeded her as Emperor GoMomozono.
As the last empress regnant of Japan, Empress GoSakuramachi's legacy extends beyond her reign. Her influence can be seen in her role as a guardian to her adopted heir, Emperor Kōkaku, until her death in 1813. She was the last of eight women to take on the role of empress regnant in Japanese history, paving the way for future generations of women in leadership positions.
Empress GoSakuramachi's reign coincided with a period of significant change in Japanese history. The country was still under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate, which had usurped power from the emperor in the 17th century. In this context, her attempts to restore imperial powers can be seen as a bold move, albeit unsuccessful, to reassert the emperor's authority.
In comparison to her contemporaries, Empress GoSakuramachi's leadership style and policies were unique for her time. While other emperors and shoguns were focused on maintaining power and stability, she took a risk by attempting to challenge the status quo and restore imperial powers.
Empress GoSakuramachi's life and reign serve as a testament to her strength and determination as a leader. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence Japanese society, solidifying her place as a significant figure in Japanese history.
