The Tang dynasty created a vast empire that stretched from the East China Sea far into western China. The dynasty practiced Buddhism which made it possible to spread its culture across much of Asia. The dynasty was founded by the Li family who seized power during the decline and collapse of the Sui Empire. The Tang dynasty was briefly interrupted when Empress Wu Zetian seized the throne, proclaiming the Second Zhou dynasty during 690–705 and becoming the only Chinese empress regnant.
