Confucius was a philosopher, scholar, politician, and teacher in the ancient Chinese state of Lu, in what is currently the Shandong Province in northeastern China. Following his death in 479 BC, followers of Confucius wrote about aspects of his life and teachings they felt were important.

These writings continued the teaching of Confucian philosophy and the order of the original documents has been rearranged significantly. This anthology of quotes from Confucius and his disciples, important events in his life, and descriptions of him are today called "The Analects."