In connection with this, the relatively stable feudal society of the Zhou era was responsible for the emergence of the Tao. This principle made cosmic order and harmony possible; the Tao can be thought of as the road or path on which come unity, harmony, and order. This idea played a critical role in the development of Confucianism and dramatically affected the course of Chinese development.
Kung Fu-Tzu - or Confucius (552-479 BCE) - was the main figurehead of Confucianism, hence its name. He is thought to have been born in the principality of Lu, now known as the Shantung Province in North-East China. This however, is the only information about Confucius known to be unyielding fact.
Confucius is said to have embarked on his quest for knowledge, order, and harmony in an effort to dispel the conflict and dissension that existed in his time. Throughout his life he sought to bring about a return of the ancient values through a standardisation of rituals, the creation of a system of rationalised feudalism and, most importantly, the establishment of ethical relationships based upon the principles of reciprocity and benevolence. In response to rumours that he claimed the position of a God Confucius said, "I silently accumulate knowledge I teach others and do not grow weary - for these things come naturally to me" (Analects 7.2). By saying this, Confucius was simply stating that he used only human qualities to help and guide others; he never claimed Godly status. In his last years, Confucius completely devoted himself to editing the classical books of Chinese history - now known as the Wu-Ting or the Five Classics - in which he aimed to preserve the ancient knowledge he valued so dearly.
After Confucius" death, Confucians were divided into at least 8 different Schools of Thought, with each claiming to have his true teachings. These schools differed in respect to rituals, sacrifices, and sacred dress codes.
