Document F: Feudalism in Japan, Graphic
In medieval Japan, the emperor had no real power. Instead, a powerful lord called a shogun ruled for the emperor. The shogun was the most important daimyo, or large landowner. Warriors called samurai were hired by daimyos for protection. The vast majority of society consisted of peasants, artisans, and merchants. The peasants farmed the land, and the artisans made products. The merchants occupied the lowest class because they did not produce any goods that contributed to society.
Document Analysis
1. Do you think the social standing of merchants in feudal Japan helped or hurt the economy? Explain.
2. How is feudalism in Japan similar to the feudalism in Europe? How is it different?
3. Do you think feudalism in Japan helped to unify the country? Explain.