Confucius (551 – 479 BCE) was a Chinese philosopher and teacher whose ideas shaped East Asian culture, politics, and ethics. His philosophy, later known as Confucianism, emphasized morality, social harmony, and righteous leadership.
Born as Kong Qiu in Zou, Lu State (modern Shandong), he came from a noble but poor family. His father died when he was young, and he was raised by his mother. He studied the Six Arts, including ritual, music, and governance, eventually working in government positions. His political career peaked when he became Minister of Crime, advocating ethical governance.
His reforms led to opposition from powerful families, forcing him into exile. For years, he traveled across China, teaching and advising rulers but failed to implement his ideals. Eventually, he returned to Lu, where he spent his later years compiling texts such as the Five Classics and teaching disciples who preserved his ideas.
His students compiled his sayings in the Analects, which became the foundation of Confucian thought. Over centuries, Confucianism shaped Chinese governance, education, and ethics, influencing societies in Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. His legacy continues in modern times, with Confucian values still deeply rooted in East Asian culture.