The Samurai of medieval Japan

Samurai means “one who serves” Samurai were the warrior class, the military elite

The Samurai did not have to work The Samurai had to stay in fighting form

The Samurai leaders became known as Shoguns Shoguns became more powerful than emperors

Yoritomo Masamune Shingen Hideyoshi

Samurai Wore armor Attacked on horseback Fought with swords and lances Besieged castles Lived by a code of honor called Bushido

Only the Samurai could carry two swords One was long and one was short This was a symbol of authority

Samurai dress Kimono Flowing hakama trousers Short jacket Shaved head with topknot of hair

The Samurai had the right to kill if he was disrespected, but followed a strict moral code

Bushido Bushido was the strict code of ethics followed by the Samurai

Bushido means the "Way of the Warrior" It was a way of life for the Samurai It was influenced by Zen Buddhism and Confucianism It demanded loyalty, devotion, and honor to the death.

There are seven virtues associated with Bushido: Gi – Right decisions Yu - Courage Jin - Benevolence Rei - Respect Makoto - Honesty Meiyo - Honor Chugi - Loyalty