Sun Wu systematically studied the history of warfare and military strategy tradition since the Zhou dynasty; The Art of War synthesized and elevated prior strategic experience.

Wu Zixu was the key figure who introduced Sun Wu into the core of Wu state politics; without Wu Zixu's recommendation, Sun Wu's talents might never have found expression.

Mao Zedong's On Protracted War and guerrilla strategy were deeply influenced by The Art of War; his sixteen-character tactics of "enemy advances, we retreat; enemy retreats, we advance" are direct applications of Sun Tzu's strategic thinking.

Masayoshi Son has publicly stated that The Art of War is his business bible; the "situation shaping" and "winning without fighting" elements of SoftBank's investment strategy come directly from Sun Tzu.

The supreme representative of Western strategic thought; together with Sun Tzu they form the poles of Eastern and Western strategic philosophy. Clausewitz emphasizes war's friction and contingency; Sun Tzu emphasizes eliminating uncertainty through preparation — their comparison is a classic topic in strategic studies.

Another Sage of War from the Warring States period; together with Sun Wu they are called "Sun and Wu." Wu Qi's Wuzi and The Art of War together form the twin peaks of ancient Chinese military thought.