Oda Nobunaga

Oda Nobunaga was born to Oda Nobuhide, a minor samurai and daimyo of Owari Province. His birth marked the beginning of a life that would transform the political landscape of Japan.

Following his father's death, Nobunaga succeeded as head of the Oda clan at the young age of 15. His initial unpopularity and eccentric behavior earned him the nickname 'Fool of Owari'.

Nobunaga began receiving formal military training, studying tactics and strategy. This education would prove crucial in his future campaigns and reforms.

Nobunaga achieved a significant victory over Imagawa Yoshimoto at the Battle of Okehazama, a turning point that solidified his reputation as a formidable military leader.

Nobunaga launched a campaign to expand his territories into Mino Province, facing and eventually defeating the Saitō clan, further consolidating his power.

Nobunaga marched on Kyoto to support the appointment of Ashikaga Yoshiaki as the 15th shogun, effectively becoming the de facto ruler of Japan.

Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu defeated the combined forces of the Azai and Asakura clans at the Battle of Anegawa, a significant victory that expanded his influence.

Nobunaga overthrew the Ashikaga shogunate, ending the Muromachi period and paving the way for his own rule and reforms.

Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu decisively defeated the Takeda clan at the Battle of Nagashino, demonstrating the effectiveness of his military innovations, including the use of firearms.

Nobunaga was betrayed and forced to commit seppuku by his own general, Akechi Mitsuhide, at Honnō-ji Temple in Kyoto. His death marked the end of his ambitious reforms and campaigns.