1. Japanese Feudalism
Clans & local warlords battle for control and produce a warrior aristocracy.
Shogun – supreme military commander held total power.
Distributed lands to Daimyo (great warrior lords).
Daimyo granted lands to the Samurai
Followed code of values called Bushido, emphasized honor and rule of Seppuku (suicide rather than dying in shame).

3. Japanese Feudalism
Noblewomen originally had a high status in society but that eventually declined.
Ex: inheritance, bushido, marriage, and loyalty.
Peasants, artisans, and merchants occupied the lowest level in society but mobility was possible.

5. Improved agriculture – tools, fertilizers
Tokugawa Shogunate
Economic Prosperity –
Improved agriculture – tools, fertilizers
Trade – roads linking castle towns
Merchants and artisans gained status in society

6. Tokugawa Shogunate 1600 – Tokugawa Ieyasu established rule until 1868.
Central Government – Central Feudalism
Orderly society – Lords and families lived in the capital Edo.
Strict rules and regulations – Ex: marriage, castles.
Strict moral code – Ex: military, government, jobs, clothing, women.

7. Meditation and devotion to duty – Devotion to nature
Zen Buddhism
Meditation and devotion to duty – Devotion to nature
Elaborate rituals – Tea Ceremony
Popular with Samurai (lesser warriors)

9. Artistic Traditions
Theatre –
No Plays – Zen Buddhist themes
Kabuki – drama and comedy
Bunraku – puppet plays
Literature – Stories, essays, and poems reflecting Zen values
Haiku – feelings, thoughts and ideas
Landscape Paintings
Woodblock prints