Shang Yang is mentioned as the reformer whose transformative reforms strengthened the state of Qin and established its tradition of favoring Legalist philosophy over other schools of thought. His reforms are credited as the foundation upon which Qin's military and administrative power was built, creating a governance system deeply intertwined with Legalist principles. This Legalist tradition made it difficult for Confucianism to rise during the Qin dynasty, forcing Confucian scholars to resort to drastic measures such as exploiting the Fengshan ceremony to gain influence at court.
