Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu (c. 544 BCE), born Sun Wu in Qi, China, was an ancient military strategist and philosopher of the Spring and Autumn period. Known as "Master Sun," he revolutionized warfare by rejecting traditional chivalry in favor of pragmatic outcomes, deception, and Taoist tenets—arguing that the ultimate victory requires no fighting. Summoned by King Helü of Wu after writing his treatise, Sun Tzu famously demonstrated his uncompromising emphasis on discipline by training 180 of the king's concubines into a functional fighting unit. His core philosophy established that strict discipline, rather than force or strength, dictates military success.