The rise and fall of shoguns in Japan
39;t appear article. The Rise and Fall of Shoguns in Japan When most people hear the word “shogun”, they usually think of a powerful ruler in ancient Japan. The term “shogun” has been both a source of pride and controversy in Japanese history. In this article, we'll explore the origins of the shogunate and what events led to its rise and fall. The term shogun literally means “barbarian-subduing general,” and was first used during the reign of the Kamakura Shogunate, which was established in 1185. The shogun was the highest ranking military title and was held by the most powerful ruler in Japan. The imperial court appointed the shogun as the supreme commander of the military and the de facto ruler of the country. The Kamakura Shogunate marked a major shift in Japan's political landscape as the shogun was now the undisputed overseer of the government and wielded absolute power. This was a complete reversal of the previous system in which the imperial court held sole authority...