Emperor Gao, also known as Gaozu of Han, was the founder of the Han Dynasty in ancient China. He reigned from 202 BC to 195 BC after defeating the rival Qin Dynasty and its successor states during the Chu-Han Contention. His leadership marked the beginning of a period of stability and prosperity in China, which lasted for over four centuries. Born as Liu Bang, he rose from humble beginnings as a peasant and became a military leader. Emperor Gao is known for implementing policies that favored the common people, such as reducing taxes and promoting agricultural development. His reign laid the foundation for the Han Dynasty's cultural and political achievements.