This article was written by Elijah Emory-Muhammad of Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School
One of the first works on military strategy was written by a mysterious Chinese figure named Sun Tzu. His treatise on warfare, “The Art of War”, is an influential masterpiece that is used today for not just warfare, but anything with an objective to be completed, especially business. Although the existence of “The Art of War” is unquestionable, Sun Tzu’s existence is.
Sun Tzu’s existence is confirmed by two contrasting sources, which creates room for doubt. In the “Records of the Grand Historian,” it is claimed that Sun Tzu was from the kingdom of Wu that existed during the Spring and Autumn Period. However, the writer of the “Spring and Autumn Annals” contends that Sun Tzu was from the State of Qi. Nevertheless, both sources did suggest that he was born in around 544 BCE, during the Spring and Autumn Period—but even this is refuted by historians.
His admired strategies had been used by the rivaling kingdoms of the Warring States Period, from 475-221 BC, which is the period that historians agree he lived in. Evidence of this lies with the wording, tactics and weapons mentioned in “The Art of War.” He himself was likely a general during the Warring States Period who may have written “The Art of War” between about 400 BC and over a century later. Whether or not someone named Sun Tzu, a name that translates to “Master Sun,” actually existed, some knowledgeable military strategist definitely did write “The Art of War.”
“The Art of War” is composed of 13 chapters, which is why the entire book is often referred to as “The 13 Chapters.” Sun Tzu adds his own spin to tactics like waging war and tactical dispositions while also introducing newer concepts like the use of spies and attacks by fire. He also explores five fundamental factors: the Way, seasons, terrain, leadership and management. The last two are often the main pull-factors for businesses and corporations looking to increase productivity.
Sun Tzu’s teachings have had some major historical impacts. They would go on to help Shang Yang envision the Qin dynasty, the first imperial dynasty of China. After the fall of the Qin dynasty, the Han general Han Xin, who is often considered the greatest Chinese general, began his efforts to launch the Han dynasty by implementing what he had learned from “The Art of War.” The book was so influential that almost 123 million copies were given to World War II troops. It has undoubtedly played a major role in the development of people’s philosophies around the world.
Sun Tzu, real or not, has relayed teachings that transcend time and written one of the few books that are written so long ago yet still applicable to modern themes. He is a prime example of an excellent author who has shared his own knowledge to teach others how to thrive in life. As he remarkably put, “opportunities multiply as they are seized,” he sure has helped many seize them.
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