Confucius was born in 551 B.C. in Lu, China. Unfortunately, his father passed away when he was just three years old, leaving his mother to raise him. At 19, he got married and began working for local nobility. Eventually, he became the tutor to the Prince of Lu's children at age 32, and then entered the world of politics at 51. His most notable positions were justice minister and later, prime minister. While under his leadership, the land thrived for four years; however, Confucius became disillusioned with the court's deceitful activities. He spent the next 12 years traveling to neighboring states and advising their leaders.