The Tokugawa Shogunate

The Shogunate System in Japan

• The shogunate system was a form of government that ruled Japan multiple times throughout its history.
• The last shogunate, the Tokugawa Shogunate, ruled Japan from 1600 to 1868, before it was overthrown by the Empire of Japan.

Characteristics of the Shogunate System

• The shogunate system created a social structure similar to that of medieval Europe.
• It was an important factor in shaping Japanese culture and history.

Defining a Shogunate

• A shogunate was essentially a military government ruled by a family of military lords, or Shoguns.
• The ruler of the shogunate was known as the Shogun.

The First Shogunate: Kamakura Shogunate

• The Kamakura Shogunate was founded in 1192 when local lords, known as daimyo, seized control of the government along with their samurai, or private warriors.
• The ruler of the Kamakura Shogunate became known as the Shogun.

Structure of the Kamakura Shogunate

• The new shogunate government ruled from the city of Kamakura.
• The imperial court in Kyoto was kept intact, with the Emperor holding his title and divine status as the head of state.
• Although the Emperor held these titles, the Shogun held the actual power.