Lü Buwei

Lü Buwei was a prominent Chinese politician and scholar during the late Warring States period (around 3rd century BCE). He served as chancellor of the state of Qin and played a key role in its rise to power, helping to unify China. Lü was known for his political acumen, promoting Legalist ideas—emphasizing strict laws and centralized authority. He also supported producing the famous philosophical text, the "Huainanzi," and was a patron of learning. Despite his influence, his political career was complex, marked by intrigue and shifting alliances, but his efforts significantly contributed to Qin’s eventual conquest of China.