Tokogawa Japan- Centralized Feudalism
October 21, 2013
Analytical Paper on Centralized Feudalism In the sixteenth century, Tokugawa Japan had a feudal system of domains that brought their political system together and set them apart from other countries. This system was based upon a supreme ruler, the Shogun, who was over several Daimyo. The Daimyo served as lords of land holders who reported to the Shogun. This system was a catalyst in the rapid progress and development of this country. The country’s natural landscape and their religious/political standing made them a calm and stable people. Peace and order as well as the centralized feudal system were strong elements in this culture’s success.
In regards to aesthetics, the Japanese landscape was 70% mountains and agriculture was abundant during this time. Many people farmed and lived in villages. The building of castle structures took off during this time. Most castles would have white walls and be heavily decorated. These castles would be surrounded by moats and large stone walls. These structures could be compared to sixteenth century European fortifications. The samurai during this time were decorated with badges and belts to indicate their honorable standing.
In Tokugawa Japan, Buddhism and Shintoism were the two main religions. Christianity was highly prohibited in this society. The author states "overseas Japanese were prohibited in 1636 from returning to Japan for fear that they might reintroduce the virus of Christianity" to emphasize the strict ban on Christianity during this time. They viewed European Catholics as lacking in authority. The religion existed in parts of Japan until it was completely stamped out, through persecution in 1638. This ban of Christianity slowed oversea trade and ships became limited to which countries they could visit without risking confrontation with missionaries/zealous Christians.
In an attempt to keep Christianity out of Japan, the Japanese isolated themselves and become politically behind. By not
Analytical Paper on Centralized Feudalism In the sixteenth century, Tokugawa Japan had a feudal system of domains that brought their political system together and set them apart from other countries. This system was based upon a supreme ruler, the Shogun, who was over several Daimyo. The Daimyo served as lords of land holders who reported to the Shogun. This system was a catalyst in the rapid progress and development of this country. The country’s natural landscape and their religious/political standing made them a calm and stable people. Peace and order as well as the centralized feudal system were strong elements in this culture’s success.
In regards to aesthetics, the Japanese landscape was 70% mountains and agriculture was abundant during this time. Many people farmed and lived in villages. The building of castle structures took off during this time. Most castles would have white walls and be heavily decorated. These castles would be surrounded by moats and large stone walls. These structures could be compared to sixteenth century European fortifications. The samurai during this time were decorated with badges and belts to indicate their honorable standing.
In Tokugawa Japan, Buddhism and Shintoism were the two main religions. Christianity was highly prohibited in this society. The author states "overseas Japanese were prohibited in 1636 from returning to Japan for fear that they might reintroduce the virus of Christianity" to emphasize the strict ban on Christianity during this time. They viewed European Catholics as lacking in authority. The religion existed in parts of Japan until it was completely stamped out, through persecution in 1638. This ban of Christianity slowed oversea trade and ships became limited to which countries they could visit without risking confrontation with missionaries/zealous Christians.
In an attempt to keep Christianity out of Japan, the Japanese isolated themselves and become politically behind. By not