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Bakufu
“Government under the tent,” referring to Japan’s military-led government system.
Bushido
The moral code of the samurai stressing honor, loyalty, and bravery.
Bushidō
“The way of the warrior,” the moral code of samurai emphasizing loyalty, honor, and courage.
Daimyō
Regional lords who ruled local areas and commanded their own samurai armies.
Divine Protection
The belief that Japan was under the spiritual safeguard of the gods, strengthened by the kamikaze storms.
Feudalism
A system where land was exchanged for loyalty and military service.
Genkō War (1331–1333)
Civil war that overthrew the Kamakura Shogunate and brought the Ashikaga to power.
Joei Code
The first written legal code of the samurai government, issued in 1232 under the Kamakura Shogunate.
Kamikaze
“Divine wind”; the typhoons that destroyed the Mongol fleets, believed to have been sent by the gods to protect Japan.
Kublai Khan
Mongol emperor of the Yuan Dynasty who attempted to invade Japan.
Naginata
A long pole weapon with a curved blade used by samurai women and monks.
Onna-bugeisha
Female samurai warriors trained in combat and defense.
Samurai
Professional warriors loyal to daimyō or shogun, bound by honor and service.
Shoen
Private estate or manor worked by peasants and controlled by samurai or temples.
Shogun
The military leader of Japan who held actual power, while the emperor served as a figurehead.
Tribute
Payment or acknowledgment of submission demanded by a stronger power.
Yuan Dynasty
The Mongol dynasty in China founded by Kublai Khan (1271–1368).
Zen Buddhism
Encouraged self-control, meditation, and discipline in battle.