He only ruled for one year, so she then served as Empress dowager after the accession of her son the Xuande Emperor.

In 1404, her spouse was made heir apparent and Zhang was elevated to crown princess (Chinese: 皇太子妃; pinyin: Huáng Tàizǐfēi).

Zhang, a respectful and filial as well as a good manager played a part in his retaining the position as the heir apparent.

[4] On 7 September 1424, her spouse ascended the throne as the Hongxi Emperor, and on 29 October, she was made empress (Chinese: 張皇后; pinyin: Zhāng Húanghòu).

He granted his mother the title of Empress dowager (Chinese: 張皇太后; pinyin: Zhāng Húang tàihòu).

[5][6] In 1435, Zhang's son was succeeded by her eight-year-old grandson, Emperor Yingzong of Ming, and she was granted the title Grand empress dowager (Chinese: 太皇太后; pinyin: Tàihuáng tàihòu).

[5] Though she refused the title, however, she still acted as regent, and held council with her ministers, listened to their views, and reserved the final say to her.