How did the rise of the shoguns change the way Japanese society was organised?

Medieval JapanYear 8 History

Contents

Introduction The rise of the Shogun Feudal System The Mongol invasions Castles and Towns

Introduction

In time, the imperial court of Japan’s emperor became too big to manage. As a result, some government officials were released from their obligations to the emperor. Some of them went on to become managers of Japan’s various provinces. They sold the crops they grew, and collected taxes; many became wealthy and powerful people.

New clans formed around these ruling families, and conflicts broke out among them. These civil wars would see the rise of shoguns that would go on to control Japan.

The rise of the Shogun

Civil war between various clans was common

The clans Minamoto and Taira were the most important clans at the emperors court.

In 1185 – Minamoto no Yoritomo formed a military government at Kamakura , known as Kamakura bakufu (a tent government) Was meant to be temporary

Shogun

In 1192 – Yorimoto asked the imperial court to recognise his position with the title:

Seii Tai-shogun ( commander in chief for the suppression of barbarians)

Emperor would keep his position and receive protection from the shogun

Shogun now spoke for the Emperor and nobles had to obey him.

This was the start of the Kamakura Shogunate (1192 – 1199)

Feudal System

The Mongol invasions

Japan had to unite to fight the common enemy.

They knew where the Mongols would land

The Mongol invasions

Two main attacks1. 1274

23 000 soldiers 800 ships

2. 1281 140 000 Soldiers 4000 ships

The victory of both battles led to civil war.

1333 – return of the Emperor

After the Mongol invasion Emperor Go-Daigo was able to gain the support of the Samurai and overthrow the Kamakura Shogunate

Civil war continued until 1603 when the emperor gave Tokugawa the shogun position.

The family would remain in power until 1868.

Shogun Tokugawa - 1603

Feudalism became strengthened The daimyo was allowed to rule

domains in return for providing the shogun support. Shogun controlled a quarter of the land Three quarters divided into domains

ruled by 275 daimyo A wealthy daimyo with his samurai

posed a threat to the shogun, so the shogun placed restrictions on the daimyo.

Castles and towns

Castles

Castles

Made from wood High walls To show the wealth and power of the

daimyo Surrounded by the homes of daimyo Slots to fire arrows Surrounded by moats, walls and

gates