Editing The Art of War (section)

=== Historical Background ===

==== Authorship and Dating ====
Sun Tzu, also known as Sunzi, is traditionally credited as the author of The Art of War. His precise historical identity remains somewhat enigmatic, but he is generally believed to have been a military general serving the state of Wu during the late Spring and Autumn period (approximately 5th century BCE). Some historians suggest that the text was compiled by multiple authors over several centuries, but Sun Tzu is the most commonly acknowledged figure behind it.

==== Historical Context ====
The Art of War was written during a time of considerable conflict and instability in ancient China, known as the Spring and Autumn period (approximately 771 to 476 BCE) and the subsequent Warring States period (475 to 221 BCE). These eras were characterized by intense warfare among rival states vying for dominance and survival. The strategic insights contained within The Art of War were born out of this necessity for effective military strategy and leadership.