A glance at a map will show Japan as an island off the coast of China, but deep in the history of Japan you would find it was actually adjoined to the mainland, until the upper paleolithic period. In addition to geology, the history of Japan is rich in culture, empire building, political struggles and military conflict. For centuries, the ruling power in Japan was an emperor. The dynamic role of emperor has great historical roots and even evolved into modern periods. Although the emperor still holds a position in Japan, the continuous role has changed dramatically over time.

The military history of Japan is characterized by long periods of wars with colorful leaders and warriors. The highest ranking military officer was known as a shogun and was the de facto ruler for a period of time. The samurai were a lower rank of the military class yet still a powerful political force playing an important role in the shaping of Japan’s history.