Taoists were the empiricists of their day. Often they were the misfits of society, preferring to dedicate themselves to inquiry of natural phenomena rather than concern themselves with social propriety. Taoist practices can be traced back to before the time of Confucius (551 B.C.). Above all, they were seekers of truth and sought to understand the relationships between man, nature, and the cosmos. Although much of Taoist beliefs and practices are akin to other nature based belief systems that coexisted throughout the world at about the same time, nonetheless, China is considered to be the origin of the Taoist. Taoist principles and philosophy were preserved in the writings of Lao-Tzu (Tao Te Ching) and of Zhuang Zhou (Zhuangzi). Both works are considered among the greatest that Chinese literature has to offer. For a more detailed history, the reader is encouraged to seek out the many resources that are readily available elsewhere. But before you head off and become lost in the vast ocean of this topic, I invite you to read the short chapters on fundamental concepts found under the Taoist Basics tab above.
Enjoy the Journey!