The year 512 BC was a year of the pre-Julian Roman calendar. In the Roman Empire, it was known as year 242 Ab urbe condita . The denomination 512 BC for this year has been used since the early medieval period, when the Anno Domini calendar era became the prevalent method in Europe for naming years.

• Sun Tzu, author of The Art of War, begins serving King Helü of the State of Wu as his general and military strategist (approximate date).
• The State of Xu is disestablished following attacks by the states of Wu and Chu.

• Tantai Mieming

• Qing, ruler (duke) of the State of Jin