What is a shogun?

Shogun were military dictators in Japan who held significant power from the late 12th century until the mid-19th century. Although the Emperor was the official ruler, the Shogun had actual control over the government and military. The position was originally granted by the Emperor, but over time, Shoguns established hereditary rule, shaping Japanese society, politics, and culture for centuries. The most famous shogunates were the Kamakura, Ashikaga, and Tokugawa.