Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu (traditionally dated to the 6th century BCE) is the attributed author of The Art of War, the most widely read military treatise in East Asian history. His biography is largely legendary: traditional accounts describe him as a general serving the state of Wu, and some scholars argue the text was compiled over a longer period, possibly during the Warring States era. The work addresses strategy, intelligence, terrain, and the psychology of conflict, and emphasizes winning through preparation, deception, and avoiding unnecessary battle. Its principles have since been applied in business, sport, and politics.