Emperor Gao of Han, also known as Liu Bang, was the founder of the Han Dynasty in ancient China. He rose from humble beginnings as a peasant and became a significant military leader during the Chu-Han Contention, a power struggle following the fall of the Qin Dynasty. In 202 BCE, he declared himself emperor, establishing a new era of stability and prosperity. Under his rule, Emperor Gao implemented various reforms, including land redistribution and tax reductions, which helped to strengthen the economy. His reign marked the beginning of the Western Han period, which lasted for over four centuries and is considered a golden age in Chinese history.