1. Japan

2. Archipelago: group of islands under control of one government
Geography:
Archipelago:
group of islands under control of one government

3. Shintoism -"way of the gods"
Japanese Religions
Shintoism
-"way of the gods"
-worshipped kami (spirit found in all living and nonliving things)
-deep respect for nature

4. Confucianism
Japan adopted ideas of strong central government, honoring parents and elders, and respect for learning

5. - idea of gaining peace through meditation appealed to Japanese
Buddhism
introduced from Korea
- idea of gaining peace through meditation appealed to Japanese

6. Zen Buddhism introduced by Chinese monks
used meditation to achieve enlightenment but also included activities, painting, training to use weapons
important to Samurai

7. Japanese Feudalism: (1100s-1870s AD)
Feudalism: system of government where local people (nobles) were given land in exchange for military service and loyalty to higher classes
Emperor still ruled in name, but did not have any real power
Small ruling class was superior to their subjects
All members of Japanese society had a defined place

8. Feudal structure
emperor
shogun
daimyo
samurai
peasants
merchants

9. Emperor- stood at the top of society, but considered a figurehead
Shogun- military and political ruler of society
Daimyo- wealthy, elite samurai who served the shogun in protecting and ruling Japan
Samurai- small nobility class of warriors
Peasants- produced food for all of Japan
Merchants- although wealthier than peasants, viewed as lowest for lack of contribution to society as a whole