Emperor Meishō was the 109th emperor of Japan, reigning from 1629 to 1643 during the Edo period. Born on July 18, 1624, she was the daughter of Emperor Go-Mizunoo and became the first female emperor in Japan since Empress Suiko. Her reign was marked by the influence of the Tokugawa shogunate, which held significant power during this time. During her rule, Emperor Meishō faced challenges related to her gender, as the position of emperor was traditionally held by males. She eventually abdicated in 1643, passing the throne to her younger brother, Emperor Go-Kōmyō. Her reign is notable for its cultural developments and the continuation of the stability established by the Tokugawa regime.