Confucius was a Chinese philosopher who lived from 551-479 BCE. He emphasized ethical and moral teachings, stressing the importance of strong interpersonal relationships and social harmony. Some of Confucius' key teachings included the Golden Rule of treating others as you wish to be treated, and the Five Relationships which defined social roles within family and government. Though Confucianism began as a philosophy, it later took on aspects of a religion in China with sacred texts like the Five Classics and emphasis on rituals and ancestor worship.