The Samurai

  

   During the Heian period, Japan's central government and real power held by the Fujiwara family was strong; but by about the 11th century their power began to slip. Landowners who lived away from the capital put up private armies, the countryside became dangerous and uncontrollable without law. Armed soldiers who rode on horse would prey on farmers and on travelers, and the pirates took control over the seas. Farmers and small landowners would have a  trade with strong warlords. The farmers and landowners would give part of their lands to warlords in exchange for protection. This is when the feudal system began and would now be called the Feudal Era. Since wars between rival lords were very common, lords would sorround themselves with loyal warroirs called Samurai (one who serves). The Samurai lived according to the demandind code of behavior, which was called Bushido (the way of the warrior). Samurais were expected to show mindless courage, reverence for the gods, fairness, and kindness toward those weaker than himself. For a Samurai dying an honorable death was judged more importantly than living a long life.