Synthesized answer
The provided passages state that the Tao-te Ching is traditionally attributed to Lao Tzu [1]. It is also suggested that Lao Tzu was a contemporary of Confucius, who lived from 551-471 B.C. [1].
The passages identify the Tao-te Ching as the most famous and influential Taoist text [1]. However, the passages do not provide further evidence to support these claims beyond the traditional attribution and the suggested timeframe of Lao Tzu's life.
Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.
From the book
Title: The Classic of the Way and Virtue by Laozi Description: The most famous and influential Taoist text, the Tao-te Ching is traditionally attributed to Lao Tzu, supposedly a contemporary of Confucius (551-471 B.C). Categories: History Pages: 260 Snippet: The most famous and influential Taoist text, the Tao-te Ching is traditionally attributed to Lao Tzu, supposedly a contemporary of Confucius (551-471 B.C).