Confucianism rose as the main state ideology during the time of Emperor Wudi in the Western Han Dynasty (206BC-8AD).

In the Qin Dynasty (221-206BC), Legalism served as the state ideology and at the beginning of the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD), Laozi’s theory that was more moderate and humane was put into practice. However, Laozi’s thoughts did not fit Wudi’s political ambition to consolidate his position and strengthen his power when he became the emperor. In 140BC, Confucian scholar Dong Zhongshu admonished the ruler to establish Taixue (an academy) to educate the crown prince and to produce elite for governmental offices. He did an excellent job in answering questions raised by Wudi. Wudi was deeply impressed and attached great importance to Confucians and some were even assigned to the high positions of minister.

In Dong Zhongshu’s words, the ruler should pay supreme tribute to Confucianism while rejecting all other schools of thought. From then on, all government officials were required to learn and study the Confucian Classics and laws were interpreted accordingly. The orthodox Confucianism helped to establish the ideological foundation in the feudal society of China. And it came to Sui (581-618) and Tang (618-907) dynasties.