Sun Tzu's Milestones
Death (traditional)
Sun Tzu's exact date of death is unknown but is traditionally placed around this time.
Historical debates
Debate over Sun Tzu's historicity and authorship began in the Song dynasty and continues among scholars.
Later years and legacy
His teachings became influential in Chinese military thought and were preserved in the Seven Military Classics.
Victory at Battle of Boju
Led Wu forces to victory against Chu at the Battle of Boju, cementing his reputation.
Wrote 'The Art of War'
Authored 'The Art of War,' a foundational text on military strategy and tactics.
Military victories and influence
Demonstrated the principles of his treatise through multiple military victories for Wu.
Appointed general of Wu
Appointed general and military strategist for King Helü of Wu, leading campaigns against the state of Chu.
Summoned by King Helü of Wu
Summoned to the court of King Helü of Wu after his reputation as a strategist spread.
Legendary demonstration for King Helü
Famously demonstrated his military discipline by training the king's concubines as soldiers, executing two for disobedience (as per Sima Qian).
Birth
Sun Tzu (Sun Wu) was born in the State of Qi, ancient China, near the end of the Spring and Autumn period.
Early life and background
Little is known about his early life; details are based on Sima Qian's Records of the Grand Historian.
Posthumous influence
'The Art of War' became a key text in military, political, and business strategy worldwide, influencing leaders and thinkers for centuries.