Page 66 - All About History - Issue 28-15

rwarring states,
period is perhaps the most
dangerous but also one of the most
exhilarating periods to be in Japan.
Although the country is ‘ruled’ by
an emperor, and to a greater extent
a shogun, the land is fractured
between different clans and families,
all eager to snatch possession of
whatever territory they can get their
hands on. Since the country was torn
Sengoku Period 1400-1600 apart by the Onin War, the daimyo,
rulers of the 260 different provinces,
have constantly jostled for power
and ceaseless war reigns supreme. It
is a period of inspiring bravery and
incredible skill, but also a time when
treachery and betrayal are always
near. With the land uprooted and in
turmoil, a mere peasant can rise to
become ruler of all Japan, and the
greatest names that have survived
FIG.01
for centuries can fall in a day.

WHERE TO STAY

With most areas literally surrounded by enemies ready to pounce as
soon as your back is turned, choosing a strong and secure location Stay on the shogun’s Underestimate the
to live is the difference between life and death in Sengoku Japan. It’s good side. He’s more small jobs. Hideyoshi
best to avoid any central cities, like Kyoto, which will change hands important and holds initially worked as a
so many times that they become akin to battlefields with extensive more power than the emperor, sandal bearer, impressing his
damage. The safest residence will be a fortified mountain castle, far whoisjustapuppet. superiors so much that he
from the central conflict. Many daimyo use these mountain castles worked his way up to rule a
safety bunkers to retire to during periods of great violence. With lavi Keep up with the unified Japan.
interiors and heavy fortifications, they make both comfortable and clans. Provinces are
secure residen constantly changing Carry a long sword.
hands, so knowing who is in Only Samurai have
control could save your life. the right to carry a
long sword; masquerading as
FIG.02
Befriend the ninjas. one could result in your death.
In a world of
backstabbing and Casually accept
double crossing, ironically, the dinner invitations.
most trustworthy and reliable What seems a gesture
group are the ninjas. of good faith is more likely to
lead to an ambush and death.
Watch out for
assassins. Although Preach Christianity.
samurai and daimyo Hideyoshi’s hatred for
claimtolivebyacodeof Christianity has led
honour, assassination attempts him to execute any Christian
are frequent; even Nobunaga missionaries he encounters,
was almost killed by one. many by crucifixion.
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