Confucius' Milestones

Confucius was an ancient Chinese philosopher and educator whose teachings on ethics, morality, and social harmony laid the foundation for Confucianism and influenced East Asian culture for centuries.
-479

Death

Confucius died in Lu at age 71, leaving a legacy of teachings compiled in the Analects.

Other January 1, -0479
-482

Edited Five Classics

Edited and compiled ancient texts, including the Five Classics, shaping the foundation of Confucianism.

Achievement January 1, -0482 - January 1, -0480
-483

Return to Lu

Returned to Lu, devoted his later years to teaching and editing classics.

Other January 1, -0483
-497

Travels among states

Traveled among states offering counsel to rulers, seeking to implement his philosophy and attract followers.

Other January 1, -0497 - January 1, -0483
-500

Political reforms in Lu

Implemented reforms to strengthen central authority and promote ethical rule, but faced opposition from rival clans.

Achievement January 1, -0500 - January 1, -0497
-501

Official in Lu

Served as an official in the state of Lu, rising to Minister of Justice and advocating for moral governance.

Career January 1, -0501 - January 1, -0497
-528

Established private school

Founded one of the first private schools in China, open to students of all backgrounds.

Achievement January 1, -0528
-529

Began teaching

Started teaching a growing number of disciples, emphasizing virtue and ethics.

Career January 1, -0529
-532

Marriage and family

Married Qiguan and had a son, Kong Li.

Relationship January 1, -0532
-535

First jobs

Worked as a keeper of stores and supervisor of fields in Lu, gaining administrative experience.

Career January 1, -0535 - January 1, -0530
-545

Early education

Received a classical education in literature, music, and ritual, showing early interest in learning.

Education January 1, -0545 - January 1, -0535
-549

Early hardship

Experienced poverty after his father's death, raised by his mother.

Family January 1, -0549 - January 1, -0540
-551

Birth

Confucius was born in the state of Lu (modern-day Shandong, China).

Family September 28, -0551