Sun Tzu , also called Sun Wu , is traditionally considered to be the author of The Art of War (also simply called the Sun Tzu), an immensely influential ancient Chinese book on military strategy. The work is considered to be a prime example of Taoist strategy. Whether or not he is an authentic historical figure is vigorously debated by historians. Traditional accounts place him in the Spring and Autumn Period of China (722–481 BC) as a heroic general of the King of Wu that lived c. 544—496 BC. Scholars accepting his historicity place his writing of the Art of War in the Warring States Period (403–221 BC), based on the descriptions of warfare in the text. Traditional accounts state that his descendant, Sun Bin, also wrote a master treatise on military tactics.

Sun Tzu, both as an author of the Art of War and a legendary figure, had an immense impact on Chinese and Asian history and culture. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the Art of War gained popularity and saw practical use in Western society. He remains highly influential in both Asian and Western culture and politics.

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For more than two thousand years, Sun-Tzu's The Art of War has provided military leaders with essential advice on battlefield tactics, managing troops and terrain, and employing cunning and deception. An elemental part of Chinese culture, it has also become a touchstone for the Western struggle for survival and success, whether in battle, in business, or in relationships. With this volume's crisp, accessible translation and lively, learned introduction, even those readers familiar with The Art of War will experience it anew, finding it more fascinating-and more chilling-than ever.