Empress Shōtoku was a Japanese ruler who reigned from 593 to 628 AD. She was the daughter of Emperor Yōmei and is known for her significant contributions to the development of the Japanese state. Shōtoku promoted Buddhism and implemented various reforms that helped centralize power in the imperial court. During her reign, Shōtoku established the Seventeen Article Constitution, which aimed to create a more organized government and promote moral governance. She also fostered diplomatic relations with China, encouraging cultural exchange and the adoption of Chinese writing and administrative practices in Japan.