Birth of 孔子
孔子 was born in the state of Lu, in present-day Shandong province, China. His birth marked the beginning of a legacy that would profoundly influence Chinese philosophy and education.
551 BCE
500 BCE
Early Teachings and Travels
During this period, 孔子 began to travel across various states in China, sharing his teachings on morality, ethics, and proper governance. He sought to promote his ideas and find a ruler who would adopt his philosophy.
479 BCE
Death of 孔子
孔子 passed away at the age of 72. His death marked a significant moment in history, as his teachings began to be recorded and spread widely after his passing, laying the groundwork for Confucianism.
206 BCE - 220 CE
Han Dynasty and the Rise of Confucianism
During the Han Dynasty, 孔子's teachings were adopted as the state philosophy. The government emphasized Confucian values in governance and education, leading to the establishment of Confucian academies.
131 BCE
Confucianism as State Ideology
The Han Emperor Wu officially recognized Confucianism as the state ideology, promoting the teachings of 孔子 as the foundation for moral and ethical governance in the empire.
220 - 581 CE
Period of Disunity and Confucian Revival
During this era of fragmentation in China, 孔子's teachings experienced a revival as scholars sought to restore order and stability through Confucian principles, influencing various dynasties that followed.
589 CE
Sui Dynasty and Reestablishment of Confucianism
With the unification of China under the Sui Dynasty, the teachings of 孔子 were once again promoted as a means to foster social harmony and effective governance, solidifying Confucianism's role in Chinese society.
618 - 907 CE
Tang Dynasty and Cultural Flourishing
The Tang Dynasty saw a flourishing of Confucian thought, with scholars studying 孔子’s works and further developing his ideas. The civil service examination system was established, rooted in Confucian texts.
960 - 1279 CE
Song Dynasty and Neo-Confucianism
During the Song Dynasty, a new interpretation of 孔子's teachings, known as Neo-Confucianism, emerged, integrating elements of Buddhism and Daoism, which further influenced Chinese philosophy and society.
1368 - 1644 CE
Ming Dynasty and Confucian Revival
The Ming Dynasty emphasized a return to classical Confucian values, reinforcing the teachings of 孔子 in education and governance, and promoting moral integrity among officials and citizens alike.
1912 CE
Fall of the Qing Dynasty and Critique of Confucianism
Following the fall of the Qing Dynasty, Confucianism faced criticism from reformers who sought to modernize China. 孔子's teachings were challenged as the country moved towards a more Westernized approach.
1949 CE
Establishment of the People's Republic of China
The establishment of the People's Republic of China marked a significant shift in the perception of 孔子 and Confucianism, with the government promoting Marxist ideology while suppressing traditional Confucian values.
1970s CE
Revival of Interest in Confucianism
In the late 20th century, there was a resurgence of interest in 孔子’s teachings as China began to embrace aspects of its cultural heritage, leading to a renewed appreciation for Confucian philosophy in modern society.
2020 CE
Global Recognition of Confucianism
In recent years, 孔子’s teachings have gained global recognition, with international conferences and studies emphasizing the relevance of Confucian values in addressing contemporary social and ethical issues.
