Princess Hirohime
Princess Hirohime and Empress Haruko
Princess Hirohime
Background and Early Life
Princess Hirohime (広媛), who passed away in 575, was a significant figure in the history of Japan as the Empress consort of Emperor Bidatsu. She was the daughter of Prince Okinaga-no-Mate. Her marriage to Emperor Bidatsu placed her in a position of great influence within the imperial court.
Marriage to Emperor Bidatsu
Emperor Bidatsu was the 30th emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession. His reign spanned from 572 to 585. The emperor had multiple consorts, but Hirohime was his first empress. She played a crucial role in the court until her untimely death in the fifth year of Emperor Bidatsu's reign. Following her death, Princess Nukatabe, another consort of Emperor Bidatsu, was elevated to the rank of empress.
Influence and Legacy
Although Princess Hirohime did not hold her position for long, she remains a notable historical figure due to her status and the political dynamics of her time. Her influence was felt in the court, and her lineage continued to impact subsequent generations of the Japanese imperial family.
Empress Haruko
Background and Early Life
Empress Haruko, also known posthumously as Empress Dowager Shōken, was born on May 28, 1849, and became a pivotal figure in modern Japanese history. She was engaged to Emperor Meiji on September 2, 1867, and adopted the given name Haruko to reflect her serene beauty and diminutive size.
Marriage and Role as Empress
Haruko and Emperor Meiji's wedding was celebrated on January 11, 1869. Haruko was the first imperial consort in several hundred years to receive the title of both nyōgō and kōgō (empress consort). Despite Emperor Meiji having 12 children by five concubines, Haruko adopted Yoshihito, the emperor's eldest son by Yanagihara Naruko, who later became Crown Prince.
Contributions and Legacy
Empress Haruko was renowned for her support of charitable work and women's education, particularly during the First Sino-Japanese War. She was instrumental in establishing the Japanese Red Cross Society and participated actively in its administration. During her stay in Hiroshima in March 1895, she visited hospitals full of wounded soldiers every other day, showcasing her compassion and dedication.
After the death of Emperor Meiji in 1912, Haruko was granted the title Empress Dowager by her adoptive son, Emperor Taishō. Her contributions to social welfare and international welfare activities are still remembered today through the Empress Shōken Fund.