# Zhu Xi

> Chinese historian, neo-Confucian philosopher, poet, and politician during the Song dynasty (1130–1200)

**Wikidata**: [Q9397](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q9397)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhu_Xi)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/zhu-xi

## Summary
Zhu Xi was a Chinese historian, Neo-Confucian philosopher, poet, and politician during the Song dynasty (1130–1200). He is best known for his work *Zizhi Tongjian Gangmu*, a historical compilation based on Sima Guang's *Zizhi Tongjian*, and for founding the Cheng-Zhu school of Neo-Confucianism, which shaped Confucian thought for centuries.

## Biography
- Born: October 18, 1130
- Nationality: Chinese
- Education: Trained in Confucian classics and philosophy
- Known for: Authoring *Zizhi Tongjian Gangmu* and establishing the Cheng-Zhu school of Neo-Confucianism
- Employer(s): Served as a politician and scholar during the Song dynasty
- Field(s): History, philosophy, poetry

## Contributions
- **Zizhi Tongjian Gangmu**: A historical work based on Sima Guang's *Zizhi Tongjian*, which became a foundational text in Chinese historiography.
- **Cheng-Zhu School**: Founded a Neo-Confucian philosophical school that influenced Confucian thought for generations.
- **Philosophical Writings**: Composed poetry and philosophical texts that expanded Neo-Confucian teachings.

## FAQs
### What was Zhu Xi's most famous work?
Zhu Xi's most famous work was *Zizhi Tongjian Gangmu*, a historical compilation based on Sima Guang's *Zizhi Tongjian*, which remains a key text in Chinese historiography.

### What philosophical school did Zhu Xi found?
Zhu Xi founded the Cheng-Zhu school of Neo-Confucianism, which became a major influence in Confucian thought.

### What were Zhu Xi's primary contributions to Chinese culture?
Zhu Xi contributed to Chinese culture through his historical writings, philosophical teachings, and poetry, which shaped Confucian thought and historiography.

### Where did Zhu Xi work during his lifetime?
Zhu Xi served as a politician and scholar during the Song dynasty, holding various administrative and scholarly positions.

### What is Zhu Xi's legacy in Chinese philosophy?
Zhu Xi's legacy in Chinese philosophy includes the establishment of the Cheng-Zhu school, which continues to influence Neo-Confucian thought and education.

## Why They Matter
Zhu Xi's work as a historian and philosopher had a profound impact on Chinese culture. His *Zizhi Tongjian Gangmu* became a foundational text in historiography, while his Cheng-Zhu school shaped Neo-Confucian thought for centuries. His contributions to philosophy and poetry further cemented his influence, making him a pivotal figure in Chinese intellectual history.

## Notable For
- Author of *Zizhi Tongjian Gangmu*, a key historical work in Chinese historiography.
- Founder of the Cheng-Zhu school of Neo-Confucianism.
- Influential philosopher and poet during the Song dynasty.
- Served as a politician and scholar, shaping both administrative and intellectual life.

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Zhu Xi was born on October 18, 1130, in China. He received a rigorous education in Confucian classics and philosophy, which laid the foundation for his later contributions to Chinese thought.

### Career and Political Role
Zhu Xi served as a politician during the Song dynasty, holding various administrative positions. His political career was marked by his scholarly achievements, which earned him respect and influence.

### Historical Contributions
Zhu Xi's *Zizhi Tongjian Gangmu* was a historical compilation based on Sima Guang's *Zizhi Tongjian*. This work became a foundational text in Chinese historiography, shaping the study of Chinese history for generations.

### Philosophical Influence
Zhu Xi founded the Cheng-Zhu school of Neo-Confucianism, which became a major influence in Confucian thought. His philosophical teachings expanded Neo-Confucian ideas, making them more accessible and influential.

### Literary and Poetic Works
Zhu Xi was also a poet, contributing to Chinese literature with his philosophical and poetic writings. His poetry reflected his deep engagement with Confucian ideals and historical events.

### Legacy and Influence
Zhu Xi's legacy includes his foundational role in Neo-Confucianism, his historical writings, and his contributions to Chinese poetry. His work continues to shape Chinese thought and education, making him a central figure in Chinese intellectual history.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. China Biographical Database
4. LIBRIS. 2002
5. datos.bne.es
6. The Fine Art Archive
7. International Standard Name Identifier
8. Japan Search
9. CiNii Research
10. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
11. CONOR.SI