Gaozu of Han, also known as Liu Bang, was the founder and first emperor of the Han Dynasty in ancient China. He rose from humble beginnings as a peasant and became a military leader during the Chu-Han Contention, a power struggle following the fall of the Qin Dynasty. In 202 BCE, he declared himself emperor, establishing a new dynasty that would last for over four centuries. Under Gaozu's rule, the Han Dynasty implemented significant reforms, including the promotion of Confucianism as the state philosophy. His leadership emphasized a balance between central authority and local governance, which helped stabilize the empire and foster economic growth. Gaozu's reign laid the foundation for one of China's most prosperous periods in history.