(551–479 BC). For more than 2,000 years, the people of China have been guided by the principles of Confucius. He was a teacher and philosopher who lived in ancient China. His teachings are known as Confucianism. Confucianism is a philosophy based on kindness, love, and respect. Confucianism serves as a way of life, a source of values, as well as a social code for its followers.

Early life

Confucius was born K'ung-fu-tzu in 551 BC in the state of Lu, now in the Shantung Province of China. The exact day and month of his birth are not known though many people in eastern Asia celebrate September 28 as Confucius' birthday.

Confucius was brought up and educated by his mother. His father had died when he was only 3 years old. Confucius was a good student in his youth, and he taught himself many subjects. Later, he learned about ceremonial practices, music, archery, driving a chariot, calligraphy, and arithmetic. He also had a good understanding of history and poetry. His knowledge of many subjects made it possible for him to become a brilliant teacher.

Career

Confucius spent most of his life learning and teaching. His goal was to change and improve society. He believed that students should work on improving their lives in addition to gaining knowledge. Confucius is thought of as the first teacher in China who wanted to make education available to all. He also tried to establish the art of teaching as a profession.

Learning was not his only interest in life. Confucius was also concerned with the political and social conditions of his time. He wanted a position of influence in the government so that he would be able to reform society. The influential position that he wanted was never given to him. Confucius died in 479 BC, at the age of 73.