Chinese religion (Tao-chiao) and metaphysical doctrine (Tao-chia) founded by Laozi [Lao-Tzu] in the 6th century B.C., whose work, the Daodejing [Tao te Ching], is well-known and readily available.
Taoism dates back to the period of the Warring Kingdoms (475-221 BC) in China, although it already incorporated elements of earlier beliefs and practices.