Li Jiqian
Li Jiqian, occasionally also known by his Song-bestowed name of Zhao Baoji, was a Tangut leader and progenitor of China's Western Xia dynasty. He resisted the Song dynasty and organized a rebellion in 984. He also created a successful alliance with the Liao dynasty for military support. Li Jiqian arranged a peace agreement with the Song emperor, but violated the treaty himself. To avoid costly military campaigns, Emperor Zhenzong of Song made Li Jiqian the jiedushi of Dingnan, and recognized Li Jiqian's new autonomous rule. He supported the construction of irrigation canals that were crucial for the development of agriculture in the arid areas of northwestern China, especially around the capital Xingqing.
Li Jiqian was father of Li Deming, and grandfather of Li Yuanhao, the founder of the Western Xia dynasty. He was conferred the temple name "Wuzong" and the posthumous name "Emperor Yingyun Fatian Shenzhi Rensheng Zhidao Guangde Guangxiao" by Li Deming in 1005. Later, he was honored with the temple name "Taizu" and the posthumous name "Emperor Shenwu" by Li Yuanhao.
In 1644, Li Zicheng, founder of the short-lived Shun dynasty, gave Li Jiqian the temple name "Taizu". Zicheng grew up in a Shaanxi village called "Li Jiqian's walled village" and claimed to be descended from Jiqian.
Family
Consorts and issue:- Empress Shuncheng Yixiao, of the Yeli clan
- * Li Deming
- Yelü Ting, Princess Yicheng of Khitan