What was the Ryukyu Kingdom and during what period did it exist?

The Ryukyu Kingdom was a kingdom situated in the Ryukyu Islands, flourishing from 1429 until its abolition in 1879. It played a significant role in the maritime trade networks connecting East and Southeast Asia.

What geographical area did the Ryukyu Kingdom encompass at its maximum extent?

At its greatest territorial extent, the Ryukyu Kingdom included present-day Okinawa Prefecture and the Amami Islands, demonstrating its influence beyond a single island.

What was the political status of the Ryukyu Kingdom concerning China and Japan?

The Ryukyu Kingdom held a complex political status, functioning as a tributary state to both the Ming and later Qing dynasties of China, while also becoming a vassal state of Japan's Satsuma Domain following an invasion in 1609.

How did the Ryukyu Kingdom's tributary status with China influence its trade?

China's policy of limiting trade to authorized states, combined with preferential treatment for Ryukyu, allowed the kingdom to thrive as a key intermediary in regional trade for approximately 150 years.

When was the Ryukyu Kingdom formally annexed by Japan, and what administrative change occurred?

The Ryukyu Kingdom was formally annexed by Japan in 1879, leading to its abolition and the subsequent establishment of Okinawa Prefecture, integrating the islands into the Japanese administrative system.

What was the capital city of the Ryukyu Kingdom?

The capital city of the Ryukyu Kingdom was Shuri, which served not only as the political center but also as a hub for traditional Chinese education and was strategically located near the major port of Naha.

What languages were spoken in the Ryukyu Kingdom?

The primary indigenous languages spoken were the Ryukyuan languages. Additionally, Classical Chinese and Classical Japanese were used within the kingdom, reflecting its cultural and political interactions.

What was the state religion of the Ryukyu Kingdom?

The state religion of the Ryukyu Kingdom was the Ryukyuan religion. However, other faiths such as Shinto, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism were also present and practiced within the kingdom.

What is the royal emblem of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and what does it symbolize?

The royal emblem of the Ryukyu Kingdom is the Mitsu-domoe, a symbol also found in Japan. It is believed to represent the balance between the three principalities—Hokuzan, Chūzan, and Nanzan—that once existed on Okinawa Island.

What were the three principalities on Okinawa Island during the Sanzan period?

During the 14th century, Okinawa Island was divided into three competing principalities known as the Sanzan period: Hokuzan (Northern Mountain), Chūzan (Central Mountain), and Nanzan (Southern Mountain).

Which principality was economically the strongest, and why?

Chūzan was the most economically robust of the three principalities, primarily due to its central location on Okinawa Island, its proximity to the vital port of Naha, and its role as a center for traditional Chinese learning.

Who unified Okinawa Island, and what year marked this unification?

Shō Hashi, the ruler of Chūzan, unified Okinawa Island by conquering Hokuzan in 1416 and Nanzan in 1429, thereby establishing the First Shō dynasty and marking the beginning of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

What significant event involving Chinese immigrants occurred in 1392?

In 1392, at the request of the Ryukyuan King, the Ming Chinese government dispatched thirty-six families from Fujian to Ryukyu to manage maritime trade, which contributed to advancements in the kingdom's technology and diplomatic relations.

What was the Yongle Emperor's directive regarding Ryukyu's practice of castration for eunuchs?

The Yongle Emperor of the Ming dynasty expressed strong disapproval of Ryukyu's practice of castrating children to serve in the imperial palace, ordering the kingdom to cease this practice.

What was Ryukyu's "southward policy," and which islands were involved?

Ryukyu's southward policy involved territorial expansion, beginning with the invasion of Okinoerabu Island and Yoron Island in 1429, marking the initial phase of its southward expansion efforts.

When did Ryukyu conquer Amami Ōshima, and what was the context?

In 1447, King Shō Shitatsu conquered Amami Ōshima, which was part of Ryukyu's broader strategy of expanding its territory northward during this period.

What was the "golden age" of the Ryukyu Kingdom, and under which king did it occur?

The golden age of the Ryukyu Kingdom, characterized by thriving maritime trade, occurred during the reign of Shō Shin, the second king of the Second Shō dynasty, who ruled from 1477 to 1526.

What types of goods did the Ryukyu Kingdom trade with Southeast Asia?

The Ryukyu Kingdom traded goods such as Japanese swords and lacquerware, and Chinese medicinal herbs and ceramics, in exchange for Southeast Asian products like sappanwood, rhino horn, tin, sugar, ivory, and frankincense.

What factors contributed to Ryukyu's commercial prosperity for approximately 150 years?

Ryukyu's commercial prosperity for about 150 years was significantly aided by the Ming dynasty's policy of *haijin* (sea bans), which channeled trade through authorized states like Ryukyu, and the preferential treatment the kingdom received.

What led to the decline of Ryukyu's commercial prosperity in the late 16th century?

The decline in Ryukyu's commercial prosperity was influenced by factors such as the increasing threat of *wokou* (pirates), the gradual erosion of Chinese preferential treatment, and heightened maritime competition from Portuguese traders.

What internal measures did the Ryukyu government take to centralize power and control weapons?

The Ryukyu government implemented measures to consolidate power, including a "sword hunt" in 1509 to confiscate weapons from the populace and nobility, and relocating local lords (*ajis*) closer to the capital to diminish their military autonomy.

What was the significance of the Satsuma invasion in 1609?

The Satsuma invasion in 1609 resulted in the capture of King Shō Nei and established Ryukyu as a vassal state of the Satsuma Domain, although it managed to retain a degree of autonomy and continued its tributary relationship with China.

Which islands were incorporated into the Satsuma Domain following the 1609 invasion?

Following the 1609 invasion and a peace treaty in 1611, the Satsuma Domain annexed the Amami and Tokara Islands, integrating them into its territory.

How did Satsuma utilize Ryukyu's relationship with China for its own benefit?

Satsuma, with the Tokugawa shogunate's approval, leveraged Ryukyu's trade relations with China to maintain its own commercial ties, particularly after Japan's isolationist policies restricted trade with most European nations.

What was the *Zaibankaiya* (or *Ufukaiya*) established by Satsuma in Shuri?

The *Zaibankaiya* was a governmental office established by the Satsuma Domain in Shuri in 1628. It served as the administrative base for Satsuma's control over Ryukyu for approximately 250 years.

What restrictions were imposed on Japanese visiting Ryukyu or Ryukyuans adopting Japanese customs?

To maintain the perception of Ryukyu as a distinct foreign country for diplomatic purposes, Japanese were forbidden from visiting without shogunal permission, and Ryukyuans were prohibited from adopting Japanese names, clothing, or customs.

When did Japan order the Ryukyu Kingdom to end its tributary relations with China?

Japan mandated the cessation of Ryukyu's tributary relations with China in 1875, following a tribute mission in 1874 that was interpreted as a sign of Ryukyu's submission to China.

What unilateral declaration did Emperor Meiji make in 1872 regarding the Ryukyu Kingdom?

In 1872, Emperor Meiji declared the Ryukyu Kingdom to be the "Ryukyu Domain," a move intended to assert Japanese authority while managing diplomatic relations with Qing China.

When was the Ryukyu Kingdom formally abolished and incorporated into Japan?

The Ryukyu Kingdom was formally abolished on March 27, 1879, when Japan incorporated its islands as Okinawa Prefecture, marking the end of the kingdom's independent existence.

What happened to the last king, Shō Tai, after the annexation?

Following the annexation, the last king, Shō Tai, was compelled to abdicate and relocate to Tokyo, where he was subsequently granted the hereditary title of Marquis within the Japanese peerage system.

What was the significance of the Mongol envoys' visits in 1272 and 1276?

The visits of Mongol Empire envoys in 1272 and 1276 were met with resistance, as Ryukyuan kings drove them off the island, indicating an early stance against foreign domination.

When did formal tributary relations between Ryukyu and the Chinese Empire begin?

Formal tributary relations between Ryukyu and the Chinese Empire commenced in 1372, initiated by the first envoy from the Ming dynasty to visit Okinawa.

What event marked the annexation of the Sakishima Islands by Ryukyu?

The Sakishima Islands were annexed by the Ryukyu Kingdom in 1500 during the reign of King Shō Shin, as part of the kingdom's expansionist policies.

What was the outcome of the 1609 Satsuma invasion regarding the Amami and Tokara Islands?

As a result of the 1609 Satsuma invasion and the subsequent peace treaty in 1611, the Amami and Tokara Islands were annexed by the Satsuma Domain and incorporated into its territory.

What role did Dr. Bernard Jean Bettelheim play in the Ryukyu Kingdom?

Dr. Bernard Jean Bettelheim, a Hungarian Protestant missionary, arrived in the Ryukyu Kingdom in 1846 and established the kingdom's first foreign hospital, contributing to its early interactions with Westerners.

What actions did Commodore Matthew C. Perry take in the Ryukyu Kingdom?

Commodore Matthew C. Perry visited the Ryukyu Kingdom in 1852, establishing a coaling station, and returned in 1854 to sign the Loochoo Compact, formalizing relations between the United States and Ryukyu.

What was the significance of the 1874 event involving Japan and Taiwan?

In 1874, Japan launched an invasion of Taiwan, ostensibly on behalf of Ryukyu, after a Ryukyuan tribute mission to China was perceived as an act of submission, highlighting the complex geopolitical situation.

What is the Mitsu-domoe crest's connection to Emperor Ōjin?

The Mitsu-domoe crest, the royal emblem of the Ryukyu Kingdom, is also associated in Shintoism with Emperor Ōjin, whose divine name is Yahata, a deity also revered by King Shō Toku, who adopted the crest.

Who was the last King of Ryukyu, and what title was he given after the annexation?

The last King of Ryukyu was Shō Tai. Following the kingdom's annexation by Japan, he was compelled to abdicate and was subsequently granted the hereditary title of Marquis within the Japanese peerage system.

What historical records mention the Amami Islands as 'Aakumi Island'?

The Amami Islands are mentioned as 'Aakumi Island' (勘米島) in the *Mokkan*, wooden slips used for record-keeping, indicating their historical trade connections during the Kamakura and Nanboku-chō periods.

What was the purpose of the *Rekidai Hōdan*?

The *Rekidai Hōdan* served as an official compilation of diplomatic documents for the Ryukyu Kingdom, meticulously recording its voyages and trade activities across East and Southeast Asia.

What were the primary reasons for the Ryukyu Kingdom's eventual annexation by Japan?

The annexation of the Ryukyu Kingdom was driven by the Meiji government's broader policy of territorial consolidation and national unification, aiming to assert Japanese control over its peripheries and strengthen its geopolitical standing.

What was the "dual subordination" that Ryukyu experienced?

The "dual subordination" refers to the period after 1609 when Ryukyu maintained tributary relations with China while simultaneously being a vassal state under the control of Japan's Satsuma Domain.

What was the role of the *Sanshikan* in the Ryukyu Kingdom's government?

The *Sanshikan* was a council of three officials that functioned as part of the Ryukyu Kingdom's legislative body, working alongside the Shuri cabinet.

How did the Ryukyu Kingdom's geography contribute to its role in maritime trade?

The Ryukyu Kingdom's strategic location along the maritime trade routes of East Asia enabled it to act as a vital intermediary, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and information between diverse regional powers.

Ryukyu Kingdom Wiki: The Sunken Kingdom: A Chronicle of Ryukyu

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Origins of the Kingdom

Three Kingdoms Era

In the 14th century, Okinawa Island was divided among three principalities: Hokuzan (Northern Mountain), Chūzan (Central Mountain), and Nanzan (Southern Mountain). This period is known as the Sanzan ("Three Mountains") period. Chūzan, centered at Shuri and adjacent to the vital port of Naha, was the most economically prosperous.

Unification and Chinese Influence

Chūzan emerged dominant, unifying the island in 1429 under Shō Hashi. The kingdom established tributary relations with Ming China, which provided ships and legitimacy. Chinese immigrants also played a significant role, contributing to advancements in technology and diplomacy.

Founding the Dynasty

Shō Hashi was granted the surname "Shō" by the Ming emperor, becoming known as Shō Hashi. He established Shuri Castle as the capital and developed Naha harbor. The Second Shō dynasty, beginning with Shō En in 1470, ushered in a golden age for the kingdom.

Golden Age of Maritime Trade

Regional Hub

For nearly two centuries, Ryukyu thrived as a crucial intermediary in East and Southeast Asian maritime trade networks. Its strategic location facilitated the exchange of goods between diverse cultures.

Diverse Trade Goods

Ryukyuan ships, often supplied by China, traded Japanese silver and lacquerware for Southeast Asian sappanwood, tin, and ivory. Chinese medicinal herbs, coins, and textiles were also key commodities in this vibrant exchange.

Ryukyuan ships frequented ports across the region, including:

China
Dai Viet (Vietnam)
Japan
Java
Korea
Luzon (Philippines)
Malacca
Pattani
Palembang
Siam (Thailand)
Sumatra

Ming Policy and Prosperity

China's policy of "sea bans" (haijin), limiting trade to authorized states, coupled with preferential treatment for Ryukyu, fostered its prosperity. This era, however, saw a decline in the late 16th century due to rising piracy and increased competition.

Satsuma Invasion and Subordination

Prelude to Conflict

In 1590, Toyotomi Hideyoshi requested Ryukyu's aid in his invasion of Korea. Refusing due to its tributary status with Ming China, Ryukyu inadvertently set the stage for future conflict. Following Hideyoshi's death, the Tokugawa shogunate authorized the Shimazu clan of Satsuma to conquer the islands.

The 1609 Invasion

The Satsuma invasion occurred on April 5, 1609. King Shō Nei was captured and taken to Japan. Although Ryukyu regained autonomy after two years, Satsuma annexed the Amami and Tokara Islands and established control over the kingdom.

Ryukyu entered a period of "dual subordination," maintaining tributary relations with both Qing China and the Tokugawa shogunate. This delicate balance was crucial for Japan's trade relations with China, as direct ties were severed. Satsuma leveraged Ryukyu's unique status to gain prestige and influence, while carefully managing its appearance as a distinct kingdom to appease China.

Maintaining Appearances

To avoid provoking China, Satsuma and the shogunate enforced strict policies. Japanese were forbidden from visiting Ryukyu without permission, and Ryukyuans were prohibited from adopting Japanese customs. This maintained the illusion of Ryukyu's independence, benefiting all parties involved.

Annexation by Japan

Meiji Restoration's Impact

During the Meiji Restoration, Japan sought to consolidate its territory and centralize power. In 1872, Emperor Meiji unilaterally declared the Ryukyu Kingdom as the "Ryukyu Domain," initiating the process of formal annexation.

Formal Dissolution

Despite maintaining diplomatic ties with Qing China for appearances, Japan formally abolished the Ryukyu Kingdom on March 27, 1879. The islands were incorporated into Japan as Okinawa Prefecture. The last king, Shō Tai, was forced to abdicate but was granted a noble title.

The Amami-Ōshima island group, previously integrated into Satsuma Domain, became part of Kagoshima Prefecture. The king's death in 1901 diminished historical connections, and the subsequent abolition of the aristocracy after World War II saw the royal family relocate to Tokyo.

International Context

The annexation occurred within a broader context of shifting geopolitical power in East Asia. China's inability to intervene effectively, partly due to its own internal issues and Japan's assertive foreign policy, allowed the absorption to proceed.

Monarchy and Governance

Royal Crest

The royal family crest of the Ryukyuan kings is the Mitsu-domoe, a symbol also found in Japan, often associated with the deity Hachiman. It is believed to represent the balance of the three kingdoms (Hokuzan, Chūzan, Nanzan) that preceded the unified kingdom.

List of Kings

The Ryukyu Kingdom was ruled by successive dynasties, beginning with the First Shō dynasty founded by Shō Hashi. The Second Shō dynasty, established in 1470, reigned through the kingdom's golden age and its eventual subordination and annexation.

Notable rulers include:

Shō Hashi (1429–1439): Unifier of Okinawa, founder of the kingdom.
Shō Shin (1477–1526): Reigned during the kingdom's golden age of trade and culture.
Shō Nei (1587–1620): Reigned during the Satsuma invasion.
Shō Tai (1848–1879): The last king of Ryukyu.

(A full list of monarchs is available in the references section.)

Governance Structure

The kingdom was governed by a monarchy based in Shuri. Key institutions included the Shuri cabinet and the Sanshikan (Three Offices), advisory councils that assisted the king. The tributary relationship with China and vassalage to Satsuma significantly influenced its political landscape.

Historical Overview

Key Milestones

The Ryukyu Kingdom's history spans centuries of significant political and economic shifts. From its unification in 1429, through its golden age of maritime trade, the pivotal Satsuma invasion in 1609, to its eventual annexation by Japan in 1879, Ryukyu navigated complex international relations.

1429: Unification of Okinawa Island by Shō Hashi.
1470: Establishment of the Second Shō dynasty.
1609: Satsuma invasion and establishment of vassalage.
1872: Declared Ryukyu Domain by Emperor Meiji.
1879: Formal annexation by Japan, becoming Okinawa Prefecture.

International Relations

Ryukyu maintained complex tributary relationships with both Ming/Qing China and Japan (via Satsuma). This unique position allowed it to flourish as a trade hub but ultimately contributed to its vulnerability during periods of regional conflict and imperial expansion.

Legacy

Though dissolved as a kingdom, the cultural and historical legacy of Ryukyu persists. Its distinct identity, shaped by centuries of interaction with China, Japan, and Southeast Asia, continues to influence the culture of the Okinawa region today.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Ryukyu Kingdom" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about ryukyu_kingdom while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

charles hardinge 1st baron hardinge of penshurst

list of russian mathematicians

hindi

clark gable

japanese paleolithic

References

Kang 2010, p. 81

è®ºæåççç¬ç«è¿å¨åççå½å±é®é¢ â ç¾åº¦æåº

A full list of references for this article are available at the Ryukyu Kingdom Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not historical or political advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research or consultation. Always refer to primary sources and academic scholarship for in-depth understanding. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Sunken Kingdom

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Origins of the Kingdom 🏯

🗺️ Three Kingdoms Era

🤝 Unification and Chinese Influence

👑 Founding the Dynasty

Golden Age of Maritime Trade 💰

🌏 Regional Hub

🚢 Diverse Trade Goods

📜 Ming Policy and Prosperity

Satsuma Invasion and Subordination ⚔️

🏯 Prelude to Conflict

💥 The 1609 Invasion

⚖️ Maintaining Appearances

Annexation by Japan 🇯🇵

🏛️ Meiji Restoration's Impact

📜 Formal Dissolution

🌍 International Context

Monarchy and Governance 👑

⚜️ Royal Crest

📜 List of Kings

🏛️ Governance Structure

Historical Overview ⏳

📅 Key Milestones

🌐 International Relations

🏛️ Legacy

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Origins of the Kingdom

Three Kingdoms Era

Unification and Chinese Influence

Founding the Dynasty

Golden Age of Maritime Trade

Regional Hub

Diverse Trade Goods

Ming Policy and Prosperity

Satsuma Invasion and Subordination

Prelude to Conflict

The 1609 Invasion

Maintaining Appearances

Annexation by Japan

Meiji Restoration's Impact

Formal Dissolution

International Context

Monarchy and Governance

Royal Crest

List of Kings

Governance Structure

Historical Overview

Key Milestones

International Relations

Legacy

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice