Daimyo
Topic: Paths to Modernisation: Japan, China, Korea · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 7 "Paths to Modernisation"
Meaning
Daimyo were the lords who ruled Japan's 250 or more domains under the Tokugawa shoguns (1603–1867). A domain was a lord's own territory. Each daimyo ran his domain, but the shogun made him live at Edo, the shogun's capital, for long periods. This kept the lords under the shogun's eye so they could not rebel. From the late 16th century, daimyo were settled in their domain capitals. These capitals grew into busy castle-towns.
Example
In Tokugawa Japan, the lords of more than 250 domains travelled to Edo and stayed there for long periods. Their large households and spending helped Edo become the most populous city in the world by the mid-17th century.
Don't confuse with
- Samurai: Samurai were the warrior class that served the shogun and the daimyo. A daimyo was a lord who ruled a domain. A samurai was a warrior who served a lord.
- Shogun: The shogun was the single military ruler of all Japan. The daimyo ruled under him.