Confucius, a Chinese philosopher, was born in Lu–modern Shantung. He was a self educated man, married at the age of 19 and was a teacher early in his career. Later in his career he became minister of justice. Because his ideas of social reform were popular with the people, many praised and honored him; however, be developed many enemies and had to leave Lu. During his travels, many followed him and became known as his disciples. Years later he edited the ancient writings and after his death the Confucian Anaects were created and within them are his doings and sayings. His teachings basically focused on filial piety and respect for one another. His thoughts and teachings later inspired many followers. Cunfucianism became the religion of China but later he was thought of as an exploiter of the masses during the Cultural Revolution—(1955-76). Today some think that there are over 6 million Confucians.
Confucius’s ambition was to share his philosophy with the ruling class; hoping that the ruling class would lead the people with virtue, instead of leading with control, power or ego. His hope and desire was that the ruling class would do right by the people and lead by an example of selflessness. Some of his quotes that was true and respected by the people were, “He who does not understand the Will of God can never be a man of the higher type. He who does not understand the inner law of self-control can never stand firm. He who does not understand the force of words can never know his fellow-men.”
