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In Chinese mythology, Huang-Di (the Yellow Emperor) was the most ancient of five legendary Chinese emperors as well as a patronspecial guardian, protector, or supporter of Taoism, one of China's main religions and philosophies. He was also a culture hero,mythical figure who gives people the tools of civilization, such as language and fire credited with civilizing the earth, teaching people many skills, and inventing numerous useful items, including the wheel, armor and weapons, ships, writing, the compass, and coined money.

According to tradition, the Yellow Emperor began ruling in 2697 B.C. His long reign was said to be a golden age, and he was honored as a benevolentdesiring good for others and wise ruler. Before Huang-Di came to the throne,...