Following the collapse of the Han Dynasty, several events paved way for the weakening of patriarchy in China. In the political sphere, weakening of patriarchy came about because of the invasion of the pastoral and nomadic people in northern China and more importantly, the rise into power of Empress Wu, who is the first and only woman to ever rule China. The nomadic culture, which was less restrictive to women, began to spread and influence the people of China, and the reign of Empress Wu further empowered women, leading to the weakening of patriarchy.