History of Japan

The oldest Japanese Emperor who has ever lived is Emperor Shōwa, also known as Hirohito. He reigned from 1926 until his death in 1989, living to the age of 87 years and 81 days. His longevity marked him as the longest-lived emperor in Japan's history. After his death, the title of the oldest emperor was passed to his son, Emperor Akihito, but he has not surpassed Hirohito's age.

The true power in Japan during the feudal period was often held by the shogunate, particularly the Tokugawa shogunate from the early 17th to the mid-19th century. While the emperor was the nominal ruler, real political and military authority rested with the shogun, who controlled the samurai class and maintained order throughout the country. The shogunate's centralized governance allowed for relative peace and stability, known as the Edo period, despite the emperor's spiritual and cultural significance.

Tokugawa Ieyasu's destiny was to unify Japan and establish a lasting peace following a long period of civil strife known as the Sengoku period. In 1600, he emerged victorious at the Battle of Sekigahara, paving the way for the Tokugawa shogunate, which he officially founded in 1603. His leadership marked the beginning of over 250 years of relative stability and isolation in Japan, known as the Edo period. Ieyasu's legacy continues to influence Japanese culture and governance today.

Minamoto Yoritomo (1147-1199) was a Japanese general and the founder of the Kamakura shogunate, the first shogunate in Japan, which marked the beginning of feudalism in the country. He played a crucial role in the Genpei War and established a military government that shifted power from the imperial court to the samurai class. Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616), on the other hand, was the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, which brought about a long period of peace and stability known as the Edo period. His victory at the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 solidified his power, leading to over 250 years of Tokugawa rule in Japan.

The Tokugawa shogunate controlled the daimyo through a system known as "sankin-kōtai," which required them to spend alternating years in the capital, Edo, and their own domains. This practice ensured that the daimyo were physically separated from their lands and resources, limiting their power and ability to raise armies. Additionally, the shogunate implemented strict regulations on the daimyo's military capabilities and finances, effectively centralizing authority and maintaining a balance of power that favored the shogunate. Through these measures, the Tokugawa shogunate established a stable but rigid hierarchy that kept the daimyo in check.

In "Total War: Shogun 2," the map screen can be accessed by clicking on the campaign map icon located at the bottom of the screen during a campaign. This map provides an overview of Japan, including territories, armies, and cities. You can also zoom in and out for a better view and use various tools to manage your strategy. Additionally, the map screen is the main interface for making strategic decisions throughout the game.

A ninja could potentially defeat a steel-armored elite samurai by leveraging agility, stealth, and the element of surprise. Using superior speed and agility, the ninja could evade direct confrontations and target vulnerable points in the samurai's armor, such as joints or openings. Additionally, employing stealth tactics, distractions, or traps could disorient the samurai, giving the ninja an opportunity to strike decisively. Ultimately, the key would be to outmaneuver and outsmart the heavily armored opponent rather than engage in a straightforward battle.

Japan's physical geography, characterized by its mountainous terrain and archipelago status, has historically led to a form of isolationism due to natural barriers and limited land for agriculture. This isolation allowed Japan to develop a unique culture, traditions, and social structures, distinct from those of mainland Asia. The surrounding seas provided both protection from invasions and opportunities for maritime trade, fostering a sense of identity that emphasizes harmony with nature. Additionally, the geographic isolation contributed to the preservation of traditional practices, as external influences were limited until the Meiji Restoration.

An emperor is often referred to as a figurehead when they hold a ceremonial position without real political power or authority. In such cases, the emperor may symbolize national unity and cultural heritage while actual governance is carried out by elected officials or a ruling elite. This separation allows the figurehead to embody tradition and continuity without being involved in the complexities of political decision-making. Examples include the Japanese emperor during the post-World War II era and various monarchs in constitutional monarchies.

Japan's Twenty-One Demands were a series of demands made by Japan to China in 1915 during World War I, aimed at expanding Japanese influence and control over Chinese territory and resources. The demands included concessions in Manchuria and Shandong, control over Chinese railways, and the establishment of Japanese advisors in various sectors of the Chinese government. While some demands were softened due to international pressure, the overall outcome heightened tensions between Japan and China, contributing to anti-Japanese sentiments in the region. These demands were a significant step in Japan's imperial expansion and set the stage for future conflicts in East Asia.

After becoming the first shogun of Japan in 1192, Yoritomo Minamoto aimed to consolidate power and establish a stable military government, known as the Kamakura shogunate. He sought to strengthen the samurai class, secure his family's dominance, and create a centralized authority to maintain peace and order in Japan. Additionally, Yoritomo focused on expanding his influence over the provinces and managing conflicts with rival clans to ensure the longevity of his rule.

In the 1600s, Japan's isolation, primarily through the Sakoku policy, led to a significant narrowing of its worldview, fostering a sense of cultural homogeneity and national identity. On the positive side, this isolation allowed Japan to develop its arts, culture, and economy independently, preserving traditional practices and reducing foreign influence. However, the negatives included a lack of technological advancement and awareness of global developments, which ultimately hindered Japan's ability to compete with Western powers when it later emerged from isolation in the mid-19th century.

Shoguns lived in elaborate residences known as shogunate palaces, which were often constructed in a traditional Japanese architectural style. These houses typically featured wooden structures with sliding doors (fusuma), tatami mat flooring, and well-designed gardens. The layout emphasized hierarchy and privacy, with separate areas for the shogun, family, and officials. Additionally, the palaces often included elements like tea rooms and ceremonial spaces, reflecting the shogun's status and the cultural practices of the time.

Bushido, the code of conduct for samurai, and daimyo, the feudal lords of Japan, are most closely associated with the warrior class during the Edo period (1603-1868). This era was characterized by a rigid social hierarchy where samurai served the daimyo, who governed their domains. Together, they played pivotal roles in maintaining order and governance in feudal Japan, influencing culture and society through their values and practices.

The Tokugawa Shogunate, also known as the Edo period (1603-1868), was a feudal military government in Japan led by the Tokugawa clan. It marked a time of relative peace, stability, and isolation from foreign influence, characterized by strict social hierarchies and economic growth. The shogunate implemented policies that controlled trade and restricted foreign interactions, leading to a unique Japanese culture flourishing during this era. The Tokugawa Shogunate ended with the Meiji Restoration, which sought to modernize and centralize Japan.

Samurai advisors served the shoguns by providing counsel on military strategy, governance, and political matters, leveraging their expertise in warfare and loyalty to maintain order. They acted as intermediaries between the shogun and other samurai, ensuring loyalty and support within the warrior class. Additionally, they helped implement the shogun's policies and maintain stability in a feudal system marked by power struggles and rivalries. Their role was crucial in shaping the shogunate's decisions and strategies throughout Japan's history.

In ancient Japan, public works included the construction of roads, bridges, and irrigation systems to facilitate transportation and agriculture. Major projects like the creation of castle towns and the development of temples and shrines were also significant, reflecting the religious and political power of the time. Additionally, the building of defensive walls and fortifications was crucial for protection against invasions. These public works not only supported economic activities but also helped in unifying the nation.

Tatami mats are traditional Japanese flooring made from rice straw and covered with woven rush grass, not mattresses. They provide a firm, natural surface for sitting or sleeping, often used in conjunction with futons. While they can be comfortable to sleep on, they are not mattresses in the conventional sense. Instead, they contribute to a unique aesthetic and cultural experience in Japanese homes.

A characteristic of Japanese architecture, as exemplified by Himeji Castle, is its use of asymmetry and a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. The castle features multiple tiers and roofs that curve upward at the edges, creating a dynamic silhouette. Additionally, traditional materials like wood and plaster are often used, emphasizing craftsmanship and natural beauty. The design also incorporates defensive elements, reflecting the castle's historical purpose.

Tokugawa Ieyasu united Japan by establishing the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603, following his victory at the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. He centralized power by creating a rigid social hierarchy and enforcing a strict policy of isolationism, which reduced the influence of foreign powers and internal conflict. The shogunate implemented a system of alternate attendance (sankin-kotai), requiring daimyo to spend time in Edo (modern-day Tokyo), which helped to control the regional lords and promote loyalty to the shogunate. This period of peace and stability, known as the Edo period, lasted over 250 years, solidifying Tokugawa's unification of Japan.

Feudalism in Japan, particularly during the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, fragmented power among local lords (daimyos) who governed their own territories with little central oversight. This decentralization weakened the authority of the imperial court and the shogunate, leading to a loss of unified governance. The constant power struggles and conflicts between rival daimyos further eroded the ability of any central authority to maintain control, ultimately resulting in a period of instability that characterized Japan's feudal era.

The power of Japanese feudal regions was primarily determined by a combination of military strength, land ownership, and political alliances. Feudal lords, or daimyo, gained influence through their samurai warriors, who provided military service in exchange for land and protection. Strategic marriages and alliances further solidified their power, enabling them to expand territories and consolidate control. Additionally, the economic prosperity of a region, often linked to agricultural productivity and trade, played a crucial role in enhancing a daimyo's influence and resources.

During the Heian period (794-1185) in Japan, several significant events occurred, including the establishment of the capital in Heian-kyo (modern-day Kyoto) in 794, which marked a cultural flourishing. The development of Japanese literature was highlighted by the creation of works such as "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu. Additionally, the rise of the samurai class began to take shape during this period, leading to increased military influence and the eventual decline of imperial power.

Buddhism began to intertwine with Shinto in Japan during the 6th century, particularly after the official introduction of Buddhism from Korea in 552 CE. Over the centuries, the two religions influenced each other, leading to the development of syncretic practices and beliefs, especially during the Nara (710-794) and Heian (794-1185) periods. This relationship was further solidified through the establishment of Buddhist temples alongside Shinto shrines, creating a unique religious landscape in Japan. By the Edo period (1603-1868), the fusion of the two traditions was well entrenched in Japanese culture.

In Tokugawa society, merchants were considered to have low status due to the prevailing Confucian values that prioritized agricultural production and the samurai class. The government viewed merchants as profit-driven and non-productive, as they did not create goods but merely facilitated trade and commerce. This perception reinforced the idea that their wealth was derived from the labor of others, further entrenching their lower social standing compared to farmers, artisans, and samurai. Consequently, despite their economic power, merchants were often marginalized in the rigid social hierarchy of the time.