1. Emperor Qin Shi Huang (259–210 BCE) was the first emperor of a unified China and founder of the Qin dynasty. He is known for his ambition, ruthlessness, and grand construction projects, such as the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army.
2. Confucius (551–479 BCE) was an influential philosopher and teacher whose ideas have profoundly shaped Chinese culture and society. His teachings emphasize the importance of moral conduct, respect for authority, and the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.
3. Laozi (6th century BCE) is attributed with the authorship of the Tao Te Ching, a foundational text of Taoism. His philosophy focuses on the harmony of nature and the way of the universe (the Dao) and promotes simplicity, modesty, and non-interference with the natural order.