How did Taoism begin?

Answer 1

Taoism was founded by Lao Tzu (Laozi), when he wrote the Tao Te Ching, the first Taoist scriptural work. It is not known precisely when this happened, but it was some time during the fourth, fifth, or sixth centuries BC.

The legend is that Lao Tzu, as an aged man, was leaving the country where he worked to retire. He arrived at the border riding an ox, with a sword strapped to his side. The border guard recognized who he was, and prevailed upon him to write a short text containing the ideas he thought most important. This Lao Tzu did over a period of three days. He then rode off into retirement.