For this reason, the Art of War is still popular. For example, the history of the treatise begins with Sun Tzu or Master Sun, who is the author of the exposition. He is known to have been a member of the intellect (Shi) between 722 and 481 BC. Sun Tzu was a military strategist, similar to the modern-day chief personal advisor of the military. When the treaty was drafted, the royal sovereignty of the Zhou dynasty had been affected after decentralization, which meant that it was difficult to maintain narrow authority over lower states. The period was also characterized by bloody armed conflicts. However, as the dynasty slowly collapsed, freedom of thought was encouraged as well as technological progress. Thus, Shi or intellects like Sun Tzu were able to promote their own intelligent thoughts into the realm. Thus, the environment gave the Shi a chance to come up with ideas such as The Art of War. Another possible reason why the presentation has remained popular is its possible and successful use by Napoleon and other famous warriors. Other military generals, such as Collin Powell and Douglas MacArthur, reported using this briefing successfully.