Economic and Political Structures of Tokugawa Japan

The chapter explores the intricate economic and political systems of Tokugawa Japan, focusing on Koku valuation, land ownership, and the growth of cities like Edo and Osaka. It delves into the control of currency exchange rates by influential families, trade monitoring, and the dynamics between the shogun's government, the imperial court, and samurai traditions. Additionally, it discusses the power structures within the domains, the declining competence of daimyo, and the influence of mid-level samurai on decision-making processes.