What is the claimed ancestry of the Sakai clan?

The Sakai clan claimed descent from the Nitta branch of the Minamoto clan. The Minamoto clan, in turn, traced its lineage back to Emperor Seiwa, a significant figure in Japanese imperial history.

What was the role of the Sakai clan during the Sengoku period?

During the Sengoku period, the Sakai clan rose to prominence as chief retainers under Tokugawa Ieyasu. This period was characterized by widespread warfare and shifting alliances among Japanese feudal lords.

How were the Sakai clan classified during the Edo period, and what does this classification signify?

In the Edo period, the Sakai clan was classified as a fudai family due to their long-standing service to the Tokugawa clan. This classification distinguished them from the tozama, or outsider clans, indicating their hereditary loyalty and established position within the Tokugawa shogunate's hierarchy.

Where and when did the Sakai clan originate?

The Sakai clan originated in Mikawa Province during the 14th century. This province was a key region in the early history of the Tokugawa shogunate.

How did the Sakai clan's name originate according to the provided text?

The text states that Serata (Nitta) Arichika had two sons. One son, Yasuchika, adopted the name Matsudaira, while the other son, Chikauji, took the name Sakai, establishing the Sakai clan.

Which individual founded the senior branch of the Sakai clan?

The senior branch of the Sakai clan was founded by Sakai Tadatsugu, who lived from 1527 to 1596. He was a notable vassal of Tokugawa Ieyasu.

What significant role did Sakai Tadatsugu play in Mikawa Province?

Sakai Tadatsugu, a vassal of Tokugawa Ieyasu, was entrusted with the defense of Yoshida Castle in Mikawa Province. This castle was strategically important during the feudal era.

Who succeeded Sakai Tadatsugu as the defender of Yoshida Castle, and what honor did he receive?

Sakai Ietsugu (1564–1619) succeeded his father, Sakai Tadatsugu, as the defender of Yoshida Castle. He received the special honor of having the prefix 'Ie-' in his name, bestowed by Tokugawa Ieyasu to signify deep loyalty.

Describe the territorial movements of Sakai Ietsugu after 1590.

After Tokugawa Ieyasu moved his holdings to the Kantō region in 1590, Sakai Ietsugu was initially installed at Usui Domain (30,000 koku) in Kozuke Province. He was later moved to Takasaki Domain (50,000 koku) in 1604, then to Takada Domain (100,000 koku) in Echigo Province in 1616, and finally to Matsushiro Domain in Shinano Province. From 1622 until 1868, his line was established at Tsuruoka Domain (120,000 koku, later 170,000 koku) in Dewa Province.

What was the significance of the Tsuruoka Sakai in the late Edo period?

The Sakai of Tsuruoka Domain in Dewa Province were a significant military power in the late Edo period. They were responsible for the safety of Edo and were patrons of the Shinsengumi police force. They also participated actively in the Boshin War and were signatories to the pact forming the Ōuetsu Reppan Dōmei.

What happened to the head of the Tsuruoka Sakai clan line during the Meiji period?

The head of the Tsuruoka Sakai clan line was ennobled as a Count during the Meiji period, reflecting the clan's elevated status following the restoration of imperial rule.

When was a cadet branch of the Sakai clan created, and where was it established?

A cadet branch of the Sakai clan was created in 1647. This branch was established at Matsumine Domain in Dewa Province, where they remained from 1647 until 1868. The castle at Matsumine was constructed in 1779.

What noble title was conferred upon the head of the Matsumine Domain Sakai cadet branch?

The head of the Sakai cadet branch established at Matsumine Domain was ennobled as a Viscount during the Meiji period.

Who founded another cadet branch of the Sakai clan, and what was his role?

Sakai Masachika founded another cadet branch of the Sakai clan. He served as a vassal to Tokugawa Nobutada, Tokugawa Kiyoyasu, and Tokugawa Hirotada. In 1561, he was placed in charge of Nishio Castle in Mikawa Province.

What domain was granted to Sakai Shigetada, son of Sakai Masachika?

In 1590, Sakai Shigetada received the Kawagoe Domain, which had a stipend of 15,000 koku, located in Musashi Province. Later, in 1601, he was transferred to Umayabashi Domain in Kozuke Province, with a stipend of 35,000 koku.

When was the Sakai branch that held Himeji Domain established, and what was its initial size?

This cadet branch of the Sakai clan was created in 1590. They were later transferred to Himeji Domain in Harima Province in 1749, with a stipend of 150,000 koku, and remained there until the Meiji period.

What noble title was given to the head of the Himeji Domain Sakai branch in the Meiji period?

The head of the Sakai clan line that held Himeji Domain was initially ennobled as a Count during the Meiji period.

When was the Sakai clan branch established at Katsuyama Domain, and what was its stipend?

A cadet branch of the Sakai clan was created in 1668 and established at Katsuyama Domain in Awa Province. This domain provided a stipend of 12,000 koku and was held by the clan until 1868.

What noble title was conferred upon the head of the Katsuyama Domain Sakai branch?

The head of the Sakai clan line at Katsuyama Domain was ennobled as a Viscount during the Meiji period.

When was the Sakai clan branch established at Isezaki Domain, and what was its stipend?

Another cadet branch of the Sakai clan was created in 1681 and established at Isezaki Domain in Kozuke Province. This domain provided a stipend of 20,000 koku and was held by the clan until 1868.

What noble title was given to the head of the Isezaki Domain Sakai branch?

The head of the Sakai clan line at Isezaki Domain was ennobled as a Viscount during the Meiji period.

What domains were held by Sakai Tadatoshi and his descendants?

Sakai Tadatoshi (1562–1627) initially received Tanaka Domain (10,000 koku) in Suruga Province in 1601. His holding was later transferred in 1609 to Kawagoe Domain (30,000 koku) in Musashi Province.

When was the Sakai clan branch established at Obama Domain, and what was its stipend?

Sakai Tadakatsu (1587–1662) was installed at Obama Domain in Wakasa Province, which provided a stipend of 103,500 koku. This branch of the Sakai clan had been created in 1590 and held the domain from 1634 until 1868.

What noble title was conferred upon the head of the Obama Domain Sakai branch?

The head of the Sakai clan line at Obama Domain was ennobled as a Count during the Meiji period.

When was the Sakai clan branch established at Tsuruga Domain, and what was its stipend?

A further cadet branch of the Sakai clan was created in 1682 and established at Tsuruga Domain in Echizen Province. This domain provided a stipend of 10,000 koku and was held by the clan until 1868.

What noble title was given to the head of the Tsuruga Domain Sakai branch?

The head of the Sakai clan line at Tsuruga Domain was ennobled as a Viscount during the Meiji period.

What was the emblem (mon) of the Sakai clan?

The article displays an emblem, known as a mon, associated with the Sakai clan. This emblem features a design described as 'maru ni kenkatabami'.

What is the Japanese name for the Sakai clan?

The Japanese name for the Sakai clan is written as 酒井氏 or 坂井氏, and is romanized as Sakai-shi.

What was the significance of the Sakai clan's status as fudai in the Edo period?

As a fudai family, the Sakai clan held a hereditary position of trust and loyalty within the Tokugawa shogunate. This status contrasted with the tozama clans, who were considered outsiders and often held less favor or power.

Which Sakai clan branch was responsible for the defense of Edo and patronized the Shinsengumi?

The Sakai of Tsuruoka Domain in Dewa Province were responsible for the safety of Edo and acted as patrons for the Shinsengumi police force during the late Edo period.

What pact did the Sakai clan of Tsuruoka sign in 1868?

In 1868, the Sakai clan of Tsuruoka were signatories to the pact that established the Ōuetsu Reppan Dōmei, an alliance formed during the Boshin War.

What role did Sakai Tadamochi serve in the Kyoto Shoshidai?

Sakai Tadamochi served as the 21st Kyoto shoshidai, a significant administrative post responsible for governing Kyoto during the Edo period.

Which Sakai clan members held the position of Kyoto shoshidai?

Sakai Tadamochi served as the 21st Kyoto shoshidai, Sakai Tadayuki was the 37th Kyoto shoshidai, and Sakai Tadaaki (also known as Sakai Tadayoshi) was the 49th Kyoto shoshidai.

What positions did Sakai Tadashige and Sakai Tadasuke hold in the late Tokugawa shogunate?

Sakai Tadashige served as Rōjū (senior councilor) from 1863 to 1864 and again from 1865 to 1866, and also as Tairō (Great Elder). Sakai Tadasuke served as Wakadoshiyori (junior councilor) during several periods between 1853 and 1866.

What were the noble titles granted to certain Sakai clan members in the Meiji era, and what was their affiliation?

In the Meiji era, several Sakai clan members were ennobled. Sakai Tadakatsu and Sakai Tadamasa were made Counts, while Sakai Tadasuke was made a Viscount. These individuals were also members of the Japanese House of Peers.

What is the meaning of the Japanese term 'koku' as mentioned in relation to domain stipends?

The term 'koku' refers to a unit of volume traditionally used in Japan to measure rice, and by extension, it represented the annual yield or economic value of a domain, often used to indicate the wealth and size of a samurai landholding.

What is the significance of the term 'fudai' in the context of Japanese clans during the Edo period?

Fudai clans were hereditary vassals of the Tokugawa shogunate, meaning they were considered loyal retainers who had been with the Tokugawa family since before the Battle of Sekigahara. They typically held positions of power and trust within the government.

What does the term 'tozama' signify in relation to Japanese clans?

Tozama clans, meaning 'outsider clans,' were lords who submitted to the Tokugawa shogunate only after the Battle of Sekigahara. They were often powerful but were generally viewed with more suspicion and given less influence than the fudai clans.

What was the role of the Kyoto shoshidai during the Edo period?

The Kyoto shoshidai was an official appointed by the Tokugawa shogunate to oversee the affairs of Kyoto, the imperial capital. This position held significant administrative and political importance.

What were the Rōjū and Wakadoshiyori roles within the Tokugawa shogunate?

The Rōjū were the senior councilors of the shogunate, forming the highest level of administrative body. The Wakadoshiyori were junior councilors who assisted the Rōjū and handled specific administrative tasks.

What is the Japanese term for an emblem or crest, as used by the Sakai clan?

The Japanese term for an emblem or crest, as used by the Sakai clan, is 'mon'.

What historical event involved the Sakai clan of Tsuruoka after the surrender of Edo?

Following the surrender of Edo, the Sakai clan of Tsuruoka returned north to their domain and became active in the northern theater of the Boshin War, a civil war fought between the imperial forces and the remnants of the Tokugawa shogunate.

What is the significance of the name 'Sakai-shi' in Japanese?

Sakai-shi is the Japanese way of referring to the Sakai clan, where 'Sakai' is the family name and '-shi' is a suffix indicating a clan or family.

What was the purpose of the Ōuetsu Reppan Dōmei?

The Ōuetsu Reppan Dōmei was a military alliance formed in 1868 by domains in northern Japan during the Boshin War. It aimed to resist the encroaching imperial forces and preserve the existing political order.

What is the historical significance of Mikawa Province in relation to the Sakai clan?

Mikawa Province is significant as the place where the Sakai clan originated in the 14th century. It was also the home province of Tokugawa Ieyasu and the location of Yoshida Castle, which was defended by prominent Sakai clan members.

What does the term 'Meiji period' refer to in Japanese history?

The Meiji period (1868–1912) was a transformative era in Japanese history following the Meiji Restoration. It marked the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the rapid modernization and westernization of Japan under Emperor Meiji.

What is the Japanese term for the 'House of Peers' mentioned in relation to the Sakai clan?

The Japanese term for the House of Peers, which included members of the ennobled Sakai clan during the Meiji era, is 'Kazoku' (華族). This was an aristocratic class established during the Meiji period.

What does the phrase 'claimed descent' imply about the Sakai clan's origins?

The phrase 'claimed descent' suggests that while the Sakai clan asserted a lineage from the Nitta branch of the Minamoto clan, this connection might be traditional or historical rather than definitively proven through modern genealogical methods.

What was the role of Sakai Tadakatsu (1587–1662) in the Sakai clan's history?

Sakai Tadakatsu (1587–1662) was a significant figure who was installed at Obama Domain in Wakasa Province. His line, created in 1590, held this domain from 1634 until 1868, and the head of this branch was later ennobled as a Count.

Sakai Clan Wiki: The Sakai Clan Chronicle: A Samurai Dynasty's Legacy

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Clan Origins

Noble Descent

The Sakai clan was a distinguished Japanese samurai clan that traced its lineage back to the Nitta branch of the Minamoto clan. This prestigious lineage connects them to Emperor Seiwa, the 56th Emperor of Japan. The clan's foundation is attributed to Serata (Nitta) Arichika, a samurai of the 14th century, who is considered the common ancestor of both the Sakai clan and the Matsudaira clan, whom the Sakai would later serve with great loyalty.

Founding and Early Service

The Sakai clan officially emerged in the 14th century in Mikawa Province. The clan's early history is intertwined with the rise of powerful samurai families. Sakai Hirochika, a descendant of Arichika, fathered two sons whose descendants formed the principal branches of the clan. During the tumultuous Sengoku period, under the leadership of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the Sakai clan rose to prominence as chief retainers, solidifying their position within the Tokugawa hierarchy.

Fudai Status

In the Edo period, the Sakai clan's long-standing and unwavering service to the Tokugawa clan earned them the esteemed classification of a fudai family. This designation distinguished them from the tozama, or "outsider clans," indicating their hereditary loyalty and integral role within the Shogunate's administration and military structure.

Clan Branches and Histories

Senior Branch: Tsuruoka Domain

The senior branch of the Sakai clan was established by Sakai Tadatsugu, a loyal vassal of Tokugawa Ieyasu. His son, Sakai Ietsugu, played a crucial role in defending Yoshida Castle. Over generations, this branch held significant domains, including Usui, Takasaki, Takada, Matsushiro, and notably, Tsuruoka Domain in Dewa Province, which grew to 170,000 koku. This branch was a formidable military power in the late Edo period, responsible for the safety of Edo and patrons of the Shinsengumi. They were active participants in the Boshin War and signatories to the Ōuetsu Reppan Dōmei.

Cadet Branches and Domains

Several cadet branches were established throughout the clan's history, each managing distinct domains and contributing to the clan's overall influence:

Matsumine Domain (Dewa Province): Created in 1647, this branch held the Matsumine Domain and its head was ennobled as a Viscount in the Meiji period.
Nishio & Umayabashi Domains: Founded by Sakai Masachika, this branch later held Kawagoe Domain and then Umayabashi Domain in Kōzuke Province.
Himeji Domain (Harima Province): Descendants of Sakai Tadakiyo were transferred to Himeji Domain, a significant holding of 150,000 koku, where they remained daimyō until the Meiji Restoration.
Katsuyama Domain (Awa Province): Established in 1668, this branch held Katsuyama Domain and its head received the title of Viscount.
Isezaki Domain (Kōzuke Province): Created in 1682, this branch managed Isezaki Domain, with its head also ennobled as a Viscount.
Obama Domain (Wakasa Province): Sakai Tadakatsu was installed at Obama Domain (103,500 koku), a significant cadet branch created in 1590.
Tsuruga Domain (Echizen Province): Another cadet branch established in 1682, holding Tsuruga Domain.

Key Family Heads

Shonai Branch Leaders

The successive leaders of the Shonai branch, known for their significant role and domain size, included:

Sakai Tadatsugu (1527–1596)
Sakai Tadakatsu (1594–1647)
Sakai Tadamasa
Sakai Tadayoshi
Sakai Tadazane
Sakai Tadayori
Sakai Tadaatsu
Sakai Tadaari
Sakai Tadakata
Sakai Jin
Sakai Tadaki
Sakai Tadatomo
Sakai Tadazumi
Sakai Tadamichi

Tsuruga Branch Leaders

The lineage of the Tsuruga branch, holding a domain of 10,000 koku, featured notable figures:

Sakai Tadashige
Sakai Tadagiku
Sakai Tadatake
Sakai Tadaka
Sakai Tadanobu
Sakai Tadae
Sakai Tadamasu
Sakai Tadatsune
Sakai Tadakatsu (1587–1662)
Sakai Tadanao (1630–1682)
Sakai Tadataka (1651–1686)
Sakai Tadasono (1671–1706)
Sakai Tadashige (1691–1735)
Sakai Tadaakira (1720–1740)
Sakai Tadamochi (1725–1775)
Sakai Tadayoshi (1813–1873)
Sakai Tadatsura (1752–1806)
Sakai Tadayuki (1770–1828)
Sakai Tadayori (1791–1853)
Sakai Tadaaki (1813–1873)
Sakai Tadauji (1835–1876)
Sakai Tadatoshi (1813–1873)

Himeji Branch Leaders

The Himeji branch, one of the most prominent, saw successive leaders manage their large domain:

Maebashi Domain

Sakai Tadayoshi (1549–1617)
Sakai Tadayo (1572–1636)
Sakai Tadayuki (1599–1636)
Sakai Tadakiyo (1626–1681)
Sakai Tadataka (1648–1720)
Sakai Tadami (1667–1708)
Sakai Chikayoshi (1694–1733)
Sakai Chikamoto (1705–1731)

Himeji Domain

Sakai Tadazumi (1710–1772)
Sakai Tadazane (1756–1790)
Sakai Tadahiro (1777–1837)
Sakai Tadamitsu (1779–1848)
Sakai Tadanori (1809–1844)
Sakai Tadatomi (1829–1853)
Sakai Tadateru (1836–1860)
Sakai Tadashige (1827–1895)
Sakai Tadatoshi (1839–1907)
Sakai Tadakuni (1854–1879)

Notable Members

Military and Political Figures

The Sakai clan produced numerous influential figures throughout Japanese history:

Sakai Tadatsugu (1527–1596): A pivotal general under Tokugawa Ieyasu, instrumental in securing Tokugawa dominance.
Sakai Ietsugu (1564–1619): Son of Tadatsugu, continued loyal service and held significant domains.
Sakai Tadakiyo (1626–1681): A prominent figure who served as Kyoto Shoshidai and later transferred to Himeji Domain.
Sakai Tadakatsu (1587–1662): Installed at Obama Domain, a key figure in the clan's established power.
Sakai Tadamochi (1725–1775): Served as the 21st Kyoto Shoshidai, a high-ranking administrative post.
Sakai Tadayuki (1770–1828): Held the position of the 37th Kyoto Shoshidai.
Sakai Tadashige (1827–1895): Served as Rōjū and Tairō, high council positions in the Shogunate.
Sakai Tadasuke (Wakadoshiyori): Held important advisory roles in the late Shogunate.
Sakai Tadaaki (1813–1873): Also known as Sakai Tadayoshi, served as the 49th Kyoto Shoshidai.

Modern Figures

The clan's influence extended into modern times with notable individuals:

Saburō Sakai (1916–2000): A legendary fighter ace of the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service during World War II, credited with numerous aerial victories.
Sakai Ricardo L.: A contemporary figure contributing to the clan's modern presence.

Additionally, several members were ennobled as Counts and Viscounts in the Meiji period, continuing their distinguished status.

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References

Papinot, p. 50.

Papinot, p. 51.

Beasley, William G. (1955). Select Documents on Japanese Foreign Policy, 1853â1868, p. 339.

"Nobility, Peerage and Ranks in Ancient and Meiji-Japan," p. 13.

Japan peers, p. 14.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Sakai clan Wikipedia page

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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. Historical interpretations can vary, and this content reflects one perspective derived from the provided source.

This is not professional historical or genealogical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consultation with qualified historians, genealogists, or cultural experts. Always consult primary sources and academic research for definitive historical understanding.

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The Legacy of the Sakai Clan

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Clan Origins 📜

👑 Noble Descent

⚔️ Founding and Early Service

🏛️ Fudai Status

Clan Branches and Histories 🌳

🏯 Senior Branch: Tsuruoka Domain

🏠 Cadet Branches and Domains

Key Family Heads 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

👑 Shonai Branch Leaders

👑 Tsuruga Branch Leaders

👑 Himeji Branch Leaders

Maebashi Domain

Himeji Domain

Notable Members ⭐

🎖️ Military and Political Figures

✈️ Modern Figures

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Clan Origins

Noble Descent

Founding and Early Service

Fudai Status

Clan Branches and Histories

Senior Branch: Tsuruoka Domain

Cadet Branches and Domains

Key Family Heads

Shonai Branch Leaders

Tsuruga Branch Leaders

Himeji Branch Leaders

Notable Members

Military and Political Figures

Modern Figures

Teacher's Corner

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Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

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References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice