Satsuma Rebellion
Quick Summary
The Satsuma Rebellion was a conflict in Japan between the new imperial government and the samurai of the Satsuma domain. The Satsuma domain, ruled by the Shimazu family, was a powerful feudal domain in southern Kyushu that played a significant role in Japan's modernization. They had a history of engaging with Western learning and trade, which gave them advantages as Japan moved away from its period of isolation.1
Led by figures like Shimazu Hisamitsu, Satsuma was instrumental in the overthrow of the Tokugawa shogunate and the restoration of imperial rule in 1868. However, as the new government implemented reforms, many samurai felt their traditional status was threatened. This discontent culminated in the Satsuma Rebellion, though the domain's leaders had largely transitioned to roles in the new government, with figures like Saigō Takamori and Ōkubo Toshimichi becoming key organizers of the restored imperial government.2
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JapanAbolition of feudalism…the greatest, revolt came in Satsuma in 1877. This rebellion was led by the restoration hero Saigō Takamori and lasted six months. The imperial government’s conscript levies were hard-pressed to defeat Saigō, but in the end superior transport, modern communications, and better weapons assured victory for the government. In this,…
Read More…the greatest, revolt came in Satsuma in 1877. This rebellion was led by the restoration hero Saigō Takamori and lasted six months. The imperial government’s conscript levies were hard-pressed to defeat Saigō, but in the end superior transport, modern communications, and better weapons assured victory for the government. In this,…
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Empire of JapanThe end of feudalismThe last and greatest revolt came in 1877 in Satsuma. At its head was Saigō Takamori, a hero of the restoration who had directed the military campaign against the Tokugawa. The new conscript levies initially struggled to defeat Saigō, and the government found it necessary to enlist former…
Read MoreThe last and greatest revolt came in 1877 in Satsuma. At its head was Saigō Takamori, a hero of the restoration who had directed the military campaign against the Tokugawa. The new conscript levies initially struggled to defeat Saigō, and the government found it necessary to enlist former…
Read More