Question

The document discussing the samurai code (Bushido) is best understood in the context of which of the following developments during the period from 1450-1750?
Question 20 options:

Samurai lost all power in Japan, having been overcome in position by the more highly esteemed merchants.

Samurai became more powerful as they seized the lands of the daimyo.

Samurai became the social elite in Japan as they gained more money and power.

Samurai transformed from warriors of the daimyo to hereditary bureaucrats in the government’s employ.

Answer 1

Samurai lost power during the period 1450-1750.

This loss of power was due to opening of Japan to European trade. Traders brought new weapons, in particular guns. The new weapons were more effective than the samurai and their sword as anyone could use them. Merchants gained status and became a part of the Japanese hierarchy.