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Events on Sunday 2 July 626 3
589 – 626Li Jiancheng (589-626)Died 2 July 626, aged 37Li Jiancheng was the eldest son of Emperor Gaozu of Tang and served as crown prince of the newly founded Tang dynasty. He was ambushed and killed by his brother Li Shimin at the Xuanwu Gate during a succession struggle. His death cleared the way for Li Shimin to become Emperor Taizong.
603 – 626Li Yuanji (603-626)Died 2 July 626, aged 23Li Yuanji was the fourth son of Emperor Gaozu of Tang and an ally of Crown Prince Li Jiancheng against their brother Li Shimin. He was killed alongside Li Jiancheng in the Xuanwu Gate Incident. His death removed another rival to Li Shimin's claim to the throne.
626Xuanwu Gate IncidentLi Shimin kills his brothers in a palace coup at Chang'anPrince Li Shimin ambushed and killed his elder brother, Crown Prince Li Jiancheng, and his younger brother Li Yuanji at the Xuanwu Gate of the imperial palace. The killings removed his rivals for the Tang succession and compelled Emperor Gaozu to name him crown prince within days. Li Shimin would take the throne months later as Emperor Taizong.