Samurai
Topic: Paths to Modernisation: Japan, China, Korea · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 7 "Paths to Modernisation"
Meaning
Samurai were the warrior class of Japan. In Tokugawa Japan (1603–1867) they were the ruling elite and served the shogun and the daimyo (regional lords). In the late 16th century the peasants were disarmed. After that, only samurai were allowed to carry swords. This marked them out from everyone else. Their special position as the only fighters ended when the Meiji government made men over twenty serve in the army.
Example
After the peasantry was disarmed in the late 16th century, a sword at the waist became the mark of a samurai in Tokugawa Japan. Later, the Meiji government brought in conscription for all men over twenty. Fighting was no longer the right of one class.
Don't confuse with
- Daimyo: Daimyo were the lords who ruled the 250 or more domains. Samurai were the warriors who served them and the shogun.