shikken
Quick Summary
The term "shikken" refers to a chief executive officer who later became a virtual regent under the Japanese shoguns. This role was prominent during the Kamakura period in Japan, which lasted from 1192 to 1333.1
During this era, the bakufu, or military government, was established. While the shogun held the official title, real power often rested with the shikken, particularly members of the Hōjō family who served as shogunal regents. This period saw the firm establishment of feudalism in Japan, with the warrior class holding significant influence and valuing martial skills and loyalty.2
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- Hōjō FamilyRise to power.
…staff was headed by the shikken, or regent to the shogun. Thus, this office controlled the law, the peace, and the revenues of Japan, and the Hōjō family came to monopolize the office of shikken and to make it hereditary among them.
Read More…staff was headed by the shikken, or regent to the shogun. Thus, this office controlled the law, the peace, and the revenues of Japan, and the Hōjō family came to monopolize the office of shikken and to make it hereditary among them.
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JapanThe Hōjō regency…the position of regent (shikken) for the shogun, an office that was held until 1333 by nine successive members of the Hōjō family. Taking advantage of disputes among Yoritomo’s generals, the Hōjō overthrew and outmaneuvered their rivals, and after three generations the direct line of descent from Yoritomo had…
Read More…the position of regent (shikken) for the shogun, an office that was held until 1333 by nine successive members of the Hōjō family. Taking advantage of disputes among Yoritomo’s generals, the Hōjō overthrew and outmaneuvered their rivals, and after three generations the direct line of descent from Yoritomo had…
Read More