After helping his father become ruler of China, Emperor Taizong himself took over the country and ruled for 23 years, setting the stage for what would become one of the most prosperous eras in Chinese history, the Tang Dynasty. The characters that comprise Taizong’s civilian name Li Shimin translate roughly as one who will rescue the world and pacify its people. China’s history is one fraught with warring kingdoms and factions. Taizong was one of the few emperors to actually unite these kingdoms under one ruler. This was due, in no small part, to Taizong’s military prowess, as exemplified by his large supply of horses, a vital tool when suppressing rivals who threatened his dynasty. His diplomatic skills were also well honed, marrying off daughters to different rulers in order to negotiate peaceful relations with potentially hostile enemies. He was also a master statesman, employing civil service exams in order to find the smartest and most capable officials to run his government. While much of what is known about him comes from historical records, he has also been depicted in literature and art, including an appearance in the classic Chinese tale, “The Journey to the West” as well as numerous television dramas and movies that mythologize the Emperor’s exploits. The mausoleum he built for himself and the empress in his later years also reveals the grand scale in which he conducted his affairs. Built into a mountain, the mausoleum took thirteen years to construct and has 185 secondary tombs that form an imperial cemetery. The six horse reliefs were placed outside Taizong’s tomb on an altar meant for memorial ceremonies. They stood there for over a thousand years worshipped by imperial and common people alike. Like their master, the horses had become divine in the minds of the Chinese people. They continue to hold a special place in their hearts to this day.