Shogunate

Maison de Tokugawa

De seigneurs de guerre à shoguns, la Maison de Tokugawa a forgé deux siècles et demi de paix – pour être finalement défaite par l'ordre même qu'elle avait créé.

1603–1868East AsiaShogunateBuddhism/Shinto
Maison de Tokugawa crest

Quick Facts

Years Active
1603–1868
Founder
Tokugawa Ieyasu
Region
East Asia
Religion
Buddhism/Shinto

Notable Rulers

Documentary Chapters

Timeline

Battle of Sekigahara

Tokugawa Ieyasu’s victory over rival daimyo at Sekigahara decisively ended the Sengoku period and paved the way for the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate.

Establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate

Ieyasu is formally appointed shogun by the emperor, marking the beginning of Tokugawa rule and the start of the Edo period.

Ieyasu’s Abdication

Tokugawa Ieyasu abdicates in favor of his son Hidetada, establishing the precedent of hereditary succession within the family.

Christian Expulsion Edict

The Tokugawa shogunate issues a nationwide edict expelling Christian missionaries and converts, signaling a turn toward religious and ideological control.

Sakoku Edict Enacted

Under Tokugawa Iemitsu, Japan enforces a policy of national seclusion, heavily restricting foreign trade and contact.

Shimabara Rebellion

A major uprising of Christian peasants and ronin in Kyushu is brutally suppressed, reinforcing the shogunate’s authority and anti-Christian stance.

Forty-seven Ronin Incident

The revenge of the forty-seven ronin for their master’s death becomes a legendary example of samurai loyalty and Tokugawa-era justice.

Tokugawa Ienari’s Accession

Ienari becomes shogun, presiding over a period of both court extravagance and growing administrative challenges.

Tenpō Famine Begins

A series of poor harvests leads to one of the most devastating famines in Japanese history, triggering unrest and weakening Tokugawa authority.

Arrival of Commodore Perry

American warships arrive in Edo Bay, demanding the opening of Japan to foreign trade and marking the beginning of the end for the Tokugawa regime.

Tokugawa Yoshinobu’s Resignation

The last shogun formally returns power to the emperor, effectively ending the Tokugawa shogunate.

Abolition of the Shogunate

The Meiji Restoration abolishes the office of shogun, and the House of Tokugawa loses its political power, ushering in a new era for Japan.

Connected Across The Archives

Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, companies, and treaties that share history with this dynasty.

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