Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Bushido

It was in the 16th century that Japan adopted the principles of Bushido across the country. It became a national identity and is still prevalent in contemporary Japan.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Confucius (551-471 BCE)

During this period of peace, samurai adopted more principles from Buddhism and the Chinese philosopher Confucius. The moral code Bushido arose. It encourages honor, kindness, loyalty, and military skill. Some say it is similar to the European code of Chivalry.

Samurai stories : Japans elite warriors 

Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616)

In 1615, Tokugawa Ieyasu did what no leader had done before, and united Japan. The union meant that there were fewer fights, thus the samurai had to adapt. Many slid from warfare to diplomacy.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Sengoku Jidai (1467 to 1615)

The daimyos were constantly fighting each other to increase their power. The name of the period literally translates to "Period of the Country at War." This is seen as the golden age of the samurai, as it is when most of their fighting took place.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Feudalism

Japan had a feudal system, and so landowners had a lot of power. At the end of the 15th century, there was no central power. Samurai had the most control because they were the ones who were able to fight to gain power.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Time moves on

The Kamakura shogunate was not very stable. When Japan had to deal with two Mogul invasions, it fell and was taken over by the Ashikaga shogunate (1338-1573). They too fell because of so much fighting between clans.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

The katana

It was also during the Kamakura shogunate that the katana, or the samurai sword, became a mark of honor. Soldiers embellished them with gems and beautiful carvings.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Zen Buddhism

During the Kamakura shogunate, the samurai adopted Zen Buddhism because its behavioral code was similar to that of their own. It involves seeking one's own nature through meditation.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Samurai

Samurai were at the head of the shogunate, and so now enjoyed great privileges in Japanese society.

Samurai stories : Japan's elite warriors 

Shogunate

The shogunate was basically a military dictatorship. On paper, the shogun was meant to represent the interests of the emperor, but in reality the emperor was just a figurehead. In some cases, the shogun was also just a figurehead for the daimyos.