The Art of War

The Art of War by Sun Tzu (c. 5th century BC)

The oldest and most influential military strategy text ever written. "All warfare is based on deception." Thirteen chapters of strategic wisdom that transcend military application and are now studied in business schools, sports coaching, and leadership programs worldwide.

Historical Significance:
Attributed to Sun Tzu, a Chinese military general and strategist who may have lived around 544-496 BC during the Spring and Autumn period, The Art of War was compiled over centuries of military thought. The text was first translated into a European language (French) by Jesuit missionary Jean Joseph Marie Amiot in 1772. Napoleon reportedly studied it; the book was required reading for KGB agents during the Cold War.

In the late 20th century, The Art of War crossed over from military to business strategy. CEOs, athletes, lawyers, and politicians adopted its principles: "Know your enemy and know yourself," "Appear weak when you are strong," "The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting." It remains one of the bestselling nonfiction books in the world.

This public domain classic was originally composed c. 5th century BC. Free to read and share.