Emperor Yōzei was the 59th emperor of Japan, reigning from 876 to 884. He was born in 877 and became emperor at a young age after the death of his father, Emperor Kōkō. His reign was marked by political instability and the influence of powerful regents. During his rule, Yōzei struggled with the challenges of governance, leading to his eventual abdication in 884. After stepping down, he lived in relative obscurity until his death in 949. His reign is often noted for the difficulties faced by the imperial court during this period of Japanese history.