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Laozi Born

-6th Century BC · Ancient World

ReligionPhilosophy

Laozi, traditionally identified as Li Er, is credited as the founder of philosophical Taoism and reputed author of the Tao Te Ching. Classical sources place his birth in the state of Chu during the Spring and Autumn Period, circa 6th century BCE. Modern scholars debate his historicity, with some placing him in the 4th century BCE Warring States period. The name Laozi, meaning "Old Master," may represent an archetype rather than a single individual.

Key Figures

Laozi

Locations

State of ChuQuoren Village

Topics

Spring and Autumn PeriodTaoismLaoziLi ErChina

Connected Events — 1 Connection

Laozi and Confucius were contemporaries in the Spring and Autumn Period; Sima Qian records a meeting where Laozi advised Confucius on ritual and the Tao Confucius Teaches Ethics, Governance, and Social Order

c. 551–479 BCE · Philosophy · Classical Antiquity

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