Confucius was a Chinese philosopher and politician. He is credited as the author or editor of many of the Chinese classic texts including all of the Five Classics.
Confucianism, or the philosophy of Confucius, emphasized personal and governmental morality, the correctness of social relationships, justice, kindness, and sincerity. During the time of the Han dynasty, Confucius’s thoughts received official sanction in the new government. They were further developed into a system known in the West as Neo-Confucianism, and later New Confucianism (Modern Neo-Confucianism).
Qufu, Confucius’s home town, has many temples dedicated to him, which have been used for Confucian ceremonies. The memorial ceremony of Confucius is celebrated widely in Taiwan, with government supports. In South Korea, a grand-scale memorial ceremony is held twice a year on Confucius’s birthday and the anniversary of his death.
Confucius is often considered as one of the most important and influential individuals in human history. His teaching and philosophy have greatly impacted people around the world and remain influential today.