Zeng Can (505 BC – 437 BC), also known as Can, styled Zichang, played a significant role in politics, holding important positions in the State of Qi, such as General, Prime Minister, and Chancellor of State. During his political career, he dedicated himself to implementing reforms and enhancing the national strength of Qi. He emphasized the improvement of legal systems and governance capabilities, implementing strict legal systems and administrative structures to ensure social order and the smooth functioning of the government. He also proposed many important suggestions regarding state governance and policy reforms, earning recognition as an outstanding politician and reformer.

Zeng Can demonstrated remarkable prowess in military affairs, participating in numerous battles and achieving significant victories. He excelled in strategizing and commanding operations, employing intelligent and flexible strategies to defeat formidable enemies, securing a prominent position and advantage for the State of Qi. His military acumen and leadership abilities made him a renowned military strategist and general of his time.

As a student of Confucius, Zeng Can was deeply influenced by Confucian thought. He advocated for Confucian ethical concepts such as benevolence, justice, and loyalty, integrating them into political and military practices. He placed emphasis on personal cultivation and the development of moral qualities, advocating for the importance of noble conduct and moral refinement.

Zeng Can’s contributions extended beyond politics and military affairs; he also played a crucial role in the promotion and transmission of Confucian teachings. He widely disseminated the teachings of Confucius to his students and future generations, exemplifying Confucian ethical principles through his own conduct, thereby exerting a profound influence on subsequent Confucian scholars and thinkers.

Zeng Can is revered as “Zeng Zi” by later generations and is acclaimed as one of Confucius’ most accomplished students in his later years. His political acumen, military achievements, and contributions to Confucian thought establish him as an outstanding statesman, military strategist, and Confucian scholar in ancient Chinese history.