Online dictionary of history and traditions in Japan: Gokenin

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French version

Gokenin

御家人
alternative words: Shogun's vassal, Shogun's retainer
keywords: title
related topics: Kamakura shogunate , Minamoto no Yoritomo , Shugo , Jito , Hatamoto , Edo shogunate , Koku
related web sites: http://www26.tok2.com/home/gokenin/
explanation: Direct shogun's retainers. At the beginning of Kamakura shogunate, about 2000 warriors were declared vassals of Minamoto no Yoritomo and became Gokenin. They were appointed to Shugo or Jito posts. In Edo shogunate, the title became more complex: Gokenin received the annual salary of less than 260 koku, Hatamoto up to 10,000 koku, and Daimyo beyond. There were about 18,000 Gokenin but their life was difficult due to the development of a money based economy.