Confucius -- Chinese Philosopher and Teacher

Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty officially adopts Confucianism as the state philosophy, replacing the previously favored Legalism. Civil service examinations are based on Confucian classics, ensuring that Confucian values would shape Chinese government, education, and society for over 2,000 years.

Confucius dies at the age of 72, believing his teachings had failed to change the world. His disciples mourn him and begin compiling his sayings. He left no written works of his own, but his followers would preserve his legacy for posterity.

In the years following Confucius' death, his disciples compile his teachings, sayings, and dialogues into the Analects (Lunyu), the foundational text of Confucianism. Other texts -- including the Mencius, the Great Learning, and the Doctrine of the Mean -- are developed by later Confucian scholars.

Confucius returns to Lu, where the political climate has changed, and devotes his final years to teaching disciples and editing classical texts, including the Book of Songs and the Spring and Autumn Annals. He becomes a revered master, attracting students from across China.

Frustrated by the political corruption in Lu, Confucius leaves his home state and travels through various Chinese kingdoms for nearly 13 years, offering counsel to rulers on moral governance. His travels prove largely unsuccessful in persuading rulers, but they enrich his understanding of human nature and society.

Confucius starts his career as an educator, emphasizing personal morality, social harmony, and proper conduct. He develops his core philosophical concepts: ren (benevolence or humaneness), li (ritual propriety), xiao (filial piety), and the principle of leading by moral example.

Despite economic struggles, Confucius pursues an education focused on history, poetry, and ritual. His self-discipline and dedication to learning establish the foundation for his lifelong belief in the transformative power of education for both individuals and society.

Confucius' father, Kong He, dies when Confucius is only three years old. Raised by his mother Yan Zhengzai in relative poverty, Confucius develops the resilience and empathy that would later infuse his teachings on filial piety and social responsibility.

Confucius, born Kong Qiu in the state of Lu (modern-day Shandong province, China), enters the world during the Spring and Autumn period, an era of political fragmentation and intellectual ferment. He would grow up to become China's most influential philosopher.