You're Dead to Me Edo Japan
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Aug 9, 2024 Join Dr. Satona Suzuki, an expert on the Edo period, and comedian Ahir Shah for a lively exploration of seventeenth-century Japan. Discover how Tokugawa Ieyasu transformed Edo into one of the world's largest cities. The discussion reveals the intriguing dynamics of samurai culture and the elaborate social structure of the time. Dive into Japan's rich theatrical heritage with insights on kabuki and Noh theater. Plus, learn about Tokugawa Tsunayoshi's unique policies on animal rights and the fascinating fashion that defined an era.
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Start and End of Edo Period
- The Edo period began in 1603 with Tokugawa Ieyasu becoming shogun, marking the start of Tokugawa rule.
- It lasted about 260 years until 1867 when the shogunate returned power to the Emperor, ending the era.
Emperor's Symbolic Role
- The Emperor during the Edo period held symbolic power but no political power and was largely confined to his palace in Kyoto.
- Real political power was wielded by the shogun who governed from Edo, controlling the country through the shogunate system.
Edo Social Structure Dynamics
- Edo Japan had a strict social hierarchy of samurai elites, peasants, artisans, and merchants.
- Samurai lost wealth over time but maintained prestige, while merchants, despite low status, grew wealthy towards the period's end.