According to Chinese tradition, Lao Tzu lived in the 6th century BCE. Lao Tzu was a central figure in Chinese culture, and is widely considered the Father of taoism, and author of the Tao Te Ching. This book is a compliation of Lao Tzus most seminal philosophies, translated directly from the ancient Chinese texts by Lionel Giles, prominent Asian Studies scholar, and former assistant at the British Museum.