Japanese Culture and Institutions 
The Tokugawa Shogunate:  An Introduction 

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During the sixteenth century, an innovative leader Nobunaga rose to the most important of the competing land-holding lords (Daimyos).    In 1573, he removed the last ruler of Japan, the Shogan,  Shogan was an old title that could be referred to as a Commander-in-chief.   After the sudden death of Nobunaga, his general, Toyotomo Hideyoshi continued the struggle to control the great lords of Japan becoming master of country in 1590.  Hideyoshi pursued an aggressive expansionist foreign policy until his death in 1598.  The contest for succession was won by Tokugawa Ieyasu.  The Tokugawas continued in power for the next 200 years.   Ieyasu controlled the center and placed the lords under his authority.  These three great leaders, Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu ended the long civil wars and restored central control. In Japan, emperors did not rule, the Shogun established policy. 

How did the Tokugawa establish order?
Early Tokugawa I  Transformation of the Tokugawa

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In this Fuksa, the deer represents longevity.  When the deer reaches 1,500 years old, his hair will begin to turn white.   The deer is shown here with the God of Long Life.
Fuksa is a covering for a gift.