The samurai emerged in Japan as elite warrior classes during the late Heian period. Initially hired to protect landowners, they gradually gained political power as central authority weakened.
Samurai culture emphasized loyalty, discipline, and honor. These values later became formalized in the code of bushidō, which stressed duty to one’s lord and moral integrity.
Early samurai were skilled archers and horsemen before swordsmanship became dominant. Their rise transformed Japanese warfare and governance.
Over time, the samurai became both military leaders and cultural icons, shaping Japan’s history for centuries.
