Chinese People

Meet the people who shaped China, from emperors and philosophers to artists, writers, thinkers, and other influential figures throughout Chinese history.

Qin Shi Huang overlooking the Terracotta Army, with ancient Chinese palace walls, a bronze ritual vessel, bamboo scrolls, and a golden sunset over misty mountains.

Chapter 1 – Qin Shi Huang’s Early Life and the Road to Power

November 1, 2026

This entry is part 3 of 3 in the series Qin and the Terracotta Army

Discover Qin Shi Huang’s early life, from his birth in the state of Zhao and rise to the Qin throne to the political struggles that helped him secure power before unifying China.

Qin Shi Huang overlooking the Terracotta Army and the Great Wall

Qin Shi Huang: The First Emperor of China

September 13, 2026

Discover Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, and explore how his unification of the warring states transformed Chinese history, government, writing, and culture.

Laozi contemplating nature in an ancient Chinese mountain landscape

Laozi and Taoism: The Philosopher Behind the Way

September 12, 2026

Discover Laozi, the legendary ancient Chinese philosopher associated with Taoism, and explore his ideas about the Way, nature, simplicity, balance, and living with less resistance.

Confucius teaching students in ancient China

Confucius: The Man Who Shaped Chinese Thought and Culture

September 12, 2026

Discover Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher whose ideas about education, family, morality, and social relationships shaped Chinese thought and culture for centuries.