Who is traditionally regarded as the founder of Buddhism?

The founder of Buddhism is traditionally regarded as Siddhartha Gautama, who is also known as the Buddha, meaning "the Enlightened One." Born in what is now Nepal around the 5th to 4th century BCE, Gautama renounced his princely life in search of understanding and alleviation of human suffering. After a period of deep meditation, he reached enlightenment and began teaching the principles of Buddhism, which emphasize the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as a way to achieve Nirvana, or liberation from the cycle of suffering.

His teachings and philosophy have had a profound impact on millions of people around the world, making Siddhartha Gautama a central figure in not only religious studies but also in discussions concerning ethics, philosophy, and psychology. His life and teachings are foundational to the Buddhist tradition, making this choice the most accurate response to the question regarding who is considered the founder of Buddhism.