Confucius
Chinese philosopher and teacher
Confucius was a Chinese philosopher and teacher from the state of Lu. His teachings gave rise to Confucianism, and his sayings are collected in The Analects.
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Born 551 BC in Qufu
About Confucius
Confucius, born Kong Qiu and known to his followers as Kǒngzǐ, lived from about 551 to about 479 BC, during China's Spring and Autumn period. He was born in the state of Lu. Little is known for certain about his life. He is believed to have come from modest circumstances and to have worked as a minor public official, and he taught a circle of disciples. His philosophy stressed morality in both personal and government life, harmonious relationships, and rulers who lead by virtue. Sayings and dialogues linked to him were gathered in The Analects, though not until many years after his death.