Budo Insights

Yasuke: African Samurai in 16th Century Japan


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Yasuke, an African man, achieved the remarkable status of a samurai in 16th-century Japan, serving under the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga.

His story exemplifies exceptional social mobility in feudal Japan, showcasing Nobunaga's open-mindedness and Yasuke's exceptional skills.

While historical details are scarce, Yasuke's legacy endures as a symbol of intercultural exchange and the breaking down of social barriers.

His rise to prominence highlights both the unusual opportunities and the limited historical documentation available for such individuals.

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Budo InsightsBy Michael Iversen