Answer: Xuantong Emperor (Puyi)
Some extra relevant information:
The regal name of the last emperor of China was Puyi. Puyi, born on February 7, 1906, ascended the throne at the tender age of two, following the death of his uncle, the Guangxu Emperor. He was part of the Qing dynasty, which ruled China for over 250 years. Puyi’s reign, however, was short-lived and marked by political upheaval and turmoil.
Puyi’s regal name was Emperor Xuantong, which means “proclaiming virtue.” Despite being the nominal ruler, Puyi’s actual power was heavily influenced by various regents and warlords who sought to control China during a time of great change. The country was transitioning from centuries-old imperial rule to a new era of republicanism.
Puyi’s reign came to an end in 1912 when a revolution overthrew the Qing dynasty and established the Republic of China. After being briefly reinstated as emperor in a puppet state called Manchukuo during the Japanese occupation of China, Puyi was eventually captured by Soviet forces at the end of World War II.
Following his capture, Puyi was imprisoned by the Soviets and later handed over to the Chinese Communist Party. He underwent “reform through labor” and was eventually released in 1959 after ten years of imprisonment. Puyi lived the rest of his life as an ordinary citizen until his death in 1967.
The life of the last emperor of China, Puyi, is a fascinating one that reflects the turmoil and transformation China experienced during the early 20th century. He witnessed the end of one era and the beginning of another, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to captivate historians and enthusiasts alike.