Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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From 501 to 497 BCE, Confucius held successive posts – Magistrate of Zhongdu, Minister of Works (Sikong), Minister of Justice (Da Sikou), and finally Chancellor-in-charge – marking the closest he ever came to realizing his political ideals.
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At thirty-five, Confucius witnessed political chaos in Lu state: Duke Zhao was driven into exile by the powerful Three Huan clans – Jisun, Mengsun, and Shusun – who vied for control, destabilizing the state. Disillusioned, Confucius traveled to Qi, hoping Duke Jing of Qi – who aspired to emulate the legendary hegemon Duke Huan…