Ancient China Was Extremely Militaristic

Perhaps only communities that valued the military would endure in ancient times because nations were frequently at war. Without ideas like martial honor to drive them, especially in periods when there were few money benefits available, how were soldiers supposed to be inspired to risk their lives in battle?

So it must be with Ancient China, as it overcame such a sizable and powerful empire. This is a particularly widespread misconception in the West, which typically associates Ancient China with military films like Mulan, Red Cliff, or The Wall by John Woo.

Confucius, the most famous counsel China has ever produced, was known for his contempt for warriors and belief that victories in war weakened the authority of a king. An old Chinese proverb states that "good men do not become soldiers." Much harsher than the more modern American proverb "Mamas, don't let your sons grow up to be cowboys" Sun Tzu's Art of War was enticing because, by emphasizing cunning above honorable battle, it avoided the destruction of vital resources and infrastructure.