Japan – Samurai Society

Learning Target 7.30  Describe how the Heian (Contemporary Kyoto) aristocracy created enduring Japanese cultural perspectives that are epitomized in works of prose such as The Tale of Genji, one of the world's first novels.

Learning Target 7.31 Analyze the rise of military society in the late twelfth century and the role of the shogun and samurai in that society.

Chonin (Artisans and Craftsmen) Emperor Directions Fold the paper in half. (hotdog style) Once the paper is folded in half title the second line down Emperor.  Open the tab and take notes on the inside. (you may cross the center line to take notes. Use as many lines as you need to take notes.) Once you have completed the notes on the inside draw a line underneath. Count the number of lines used to take the notes. Close the tab. Count the same number on the outside of the notes. This way the lines on the inside should match the lines on the outside perfectly. Open the tab and begin taking notes on the next societal class inside the paper. Shogun Daimyo Samurai Ronin (Mercenaries) Peasants Chonin (Artisans and Craftsmen)

Emperor (red) Figurehead: Was top of the Japanese society but he had no real power; except to appoint the shogun and preside over spiritual ceremonies.

Shogun (Orange) Political Leader Was the actual ruler of Japan. He held most of the political and military power in Japan.

Daimyo (yellow) Nobles Wealthy landowning nobles and leaders of clans. 

Samurai (green) Professional Warriors They were part of the Daimyo's army. They were highly trained and highly skilled.

Ronin – Mercenaries (blue) Paid soldiers or Mercenaries Who were part of the Daimyo's army but not necessarily loyal to the Daimyo

Peasants (purple) Most were farmers and fishers. Largest social class consisting of 90% of the population. 

Chonin – Merchants and Craftsmen (pink) Lowest social class consisting of Artisans and Craftsmen. Sales people and crafts people who were considered to be the lowest class because they produced nothing of their own.