Shang Yang (, 390–338 BCE, born Wei Yang in the State of Wei) was an important Chinese of the State of Qin during the Warring States period who contributed to what would be termed Chinese Legalism, as detailed in the The Book of Lord Shang. With the support of Duke Xiao of Qin, Yang enacted numerous reforms, transforming the peripheral Qin state into a militarily powerful and strongly centralized kingdom, enhancing the administration through an emphasis on meritocracy.