Shogun

usgb/ˈʃəʊɡən/
noun

A military leader in Japan from 1192 to 1867. The shogun was the most powerful person in the country.

The shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu established a long period of peace in Japan.
Visual representation of "shogun" - A military leader in Japan from 1192 to 1867. The shogun was the most powerful person in the country.

Often appears as...

  • shogun dynasty
  • shogun rule

Usage tips

Historical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "shogun"
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Historical Role

Shogun were military rulers, not just any leaders, with strong samurai connections.

Illustration for Historical Role
The shogun commanded armies like a general.
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Not Emperor

Shogun were distinct from emperors; they held real power, while emperors were symbolic.

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Despite being an emperor, he had less influence than the shogun.
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Cultural Importance

Knowledge of shoguns is crucial to understanding Japanese history and literary references.

Illustration for Cultural Importance
Many historical novels feature a shogun as a central figure.
Visual representation of the word "Shogun"

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