1. Japanese Feudalism

2. Centralized Feudalism
A social, political and economic system based on personal loyalties, class distinctions, and the granting of land rights.

3. Japan’s Feudal Social Structure

4. Emperor
Figurehead
Direct descendent from God
No real power

5. Shogun
Military governor general – assumed the political power of the Emperor. Ruled with the support of landholding nobility.
Why not overthrow the Emperor?

6. Daimyo Great landholders
Swore allegiance to the shogun, but were very powerful

7. Samurai
Warriors who swore allegiance to a daimyo, or an emperor, in exchange for land.

8. Peasants
Farmers
Worked farms and made weapons in exchange for protection

9. Merchants Sold goods Held wealth, but had low social status
Made money off of the labor of others