The Art of War is an ancient Chinese military treatise that is attributed to Sun Tzu (also referred to as "Sunzi" and "Sun Wu"), a high ranking military general, strategist and tactist. The Art of War has also been applied to business and managerial strategies. Composed of 13 chapters, each of which is devoted to one aspect of warfare. It is said to be the definitive work on military strategies and tactics of its time, and is still read for its military insight which can be applied to business and managerial strategies as well.

Sun Tzu, also spelled Sunzi, is a revered figure in Chinese history, recognized primarily for his contributions as a military strategist and philosopher. His birth date is uncertain, but he is thought to have lived during the late Spring and Autumn period (approximately 5th century BCE). Sun Tzu's enduring legacy is encapsulated in his seminal treatise, 'The Art of War.' This work is not just a cornerstone in the study of military strategy, but has also found application in diverse fields such as business tactics, legal strategy, sports, and more. Utilizing a concise and often aphoristic style, Sun Tzu's text explores the nuances of warfare, emphasizing the importance of intelligence, strategy, and adaptation to circumstance. While 'The Art of War' remains Sun Tzu's most renowned creation, his historical existence is a topic of debate among scholars; some suggest that he may be a legendary figure or a symbolic representation of ancient strategy. Regardless, the profound impact of 'The Art of War' in various aspects of competitive strategy and leadership philosophy cannot be overstated, as it continues to be a compelling guide for decision-making and conflict resolution across various cultures and disciplines.