Japanese Feudalism Samurai | Ancient Origins
For most of the medieval period, feudalism was the dominant social system across the world. In Japan, however, it took on a distinct form, adapted to the traditions and the cultures of this eastern nation. There, it became closely connected with the rapid rise of the Samurai social class, and thus shaped the evolution of that country, from roughly 1185 AD until 1868 AD and the Meiji Restoration. But unlike the feudal system in Europe, which was based on land and vassalage, the Japanese version was more oriented towards loyalty, honor, prowess, and military power. And who exuded these traits better than the famed Samurai?
The Rise of Feudalism in the Far East
Feudalism in ancient Japan developed as a direct response to the troubled state of the nation in early Middle Ages. Around the time of the Heian period, which lasted from 794 to 1185 AD, political power in Japan was in a crisis, being increasingly fragmented and decentralized. The Imperial court, situated in the city of Kyoto, began losing their power and control over the provinces, even though they were – for a time – the uncontested power in Japan. In their stead, the local militarized clans began to rise steadily, eventually establishing their own private estates, which were known as shōen. These estates were exempt from the control of the government and did not pay taxes – all of which brought to the weakening of the court. At the head of these independent estates were powerful noble families, clans that possessed their own armies, and as such wielded significant power.
Colorized photograph of Japanese military commander, Koboto Santaro wearing traditional Samurai Armor, ca. 1868. (Wellcome Library /CC BY-SA 4.0)
Top image: AI image of Japanese samurai riding a horse in battle. Source: Rando / Adobe Stock
By Aleksa Vučković
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