Introduction Imagine being a young emperor, only 17, trying to establish your authority in a court filled with skeptical ministers, powerful regional lords, and strong family factions. This was Liu Che’s reality when he ascended to the throne as Emperor Wu of Han in 141 BCE. Despite these early challenges, Liu Che wasn’t just any…
Introduction Imagine stepping into a state governed by strict rules and harsh punishments. For Xun Kuang, a prominent Confucian thinker, this wasn’t just a theoretical challenge—it was a reality. Known for its ruthless Legalist approach, the Qin state wasn’t the place where a Confucian scholar would typically venture. But Xun Kuang wasn’t afraid to confront…
Introduction Imagine a kingdom rising from chaos, driven by one man’s relentless ambition and a strict philosophy that promised unity and control. This was the Qin Dynasty—a short-lived but pivotal empire that laid the foundations for a unified China. Built on the principles of Legalism, the Qin’s rapid ascent was matched only by its equally…
Introduction How can someone who lived over 2,000 years ago still shape our thinking today? Confucius was that kind of person. From humble beginnings, he dedicated his life to building a better society, and his ideas still echo across generations. Whether you’re exploring your heritage or simply curious, Confucius' life has lessons for everyone. Early…