Here’s How the Samurai of Feudal Japan Lived
The Samurai were elite mercenaries at first.
The word “samurai” is derived from the Japanese word “sauburau,” which means “to serve.” The word was first used in the eighth century during Japan’s “Heian period,” to describe mid-ranking court administrators and, later, imperial guards.
The title was metaphorical, meant to highlight their loyalty to the emperor. The role and the title evolved over time, and by the 12th century, the samurai began to resemble their portrayal in media today as disciplined and honorable warriors.
Before the Heian period, Japan built its army by enlisting low-skilled peasants, while the nobility hired highly skilled private soldiers. Soon, however, these elite warriors began to join the ranks of the military, and thus the samurai order was born. With time, the military became a band of elite mercenaries.
Being drafted into the army became popular among the elites and aristocrats seeking employment. It also gave them a greater say in military policy, and in the “age of the warrior,” that was quite valuable.
The first Shogun came from the Minamoto Clan
In the 12th century, the two dominating clans, namely Minamoto and Taira, battled each other in what is known…
