The Duke of Zhou was a prominent figure in ancient China, known for his role during the early Western Zhou Dynasty (c. 1046–771 BCE). He was the younger brother of King Wu, the founder of the dynasty, and played a crucial role in consolidating the new regime after the overthrow of the Shang Dynasty. The Duke is often celebrated for his wisdom, governance, and contributions to Chinese culture. He is also credited with authoring the Book of Rites, which outlines important rituals and social norms in Confucianism. The Duke of Zhou is revered as a model of virtue and loyalty, influencing later generations and becoming a symbol of moral integrity in Chinese history.