History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Samurai: The Story of Japan's Great Warriors

Average customer rating:

Comprehensive Pictorial Guide

Samurai: The Story of Japan's Great Warriors
Stephen Turnbull
Manufacturer: PRC Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Japan | Asia | History | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

General | World | History | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1856487032

Book Description

Four vellum sections build up the layers of armor worn by the samurai, and text by a world-recognized expert on the subject, provide an inimitable look at the mysterious ancient Japanese warrior class. Every image and page offers fascinating insight, from an overview of early Japan and the emperor system to the specifics of weaponry. The story begins as the samurai come into being in the 800s, and defines exactly what they are. Tales of the great battles and feuds, and commentary on the politics of the time, bring these compelling soldiers to life. The comprehensive information covers such issues as the samurai's ranks and grades, way of life, retainers, loyalty (bushido), and training. An absolutely compelling guide.

Customer Reviews:

Comprehensive Pictorial Guide.......2006-01-25

I'm not certain why the "Samurai" bug bites readers but in my case I lived outside Yokohama, Japan, on the Kanto Plain for 25 months between October, 1962, and December, 1964. (Please see also my review of Oliver Statler's early 1960's book, "Japanese Inn" for additional detail of this area).

Living only a stone's throw from the ancient Tokaido Road, once capital city Kamakura, and medieval Odawara castle, among many other sites, caused me to this very day to have an avocational interest for Japan in general and the Samurai in specific.

I have several of Stephen Turnbull's books, feeling him to be very well versed in all aspects of this field to the point of being a notable expert in that area. The term "expert" is bandied about these days oft times without substance or merit, but in Mr. Turnbull's case it is well justified.

This particular book is one I purchased a year ago, and for the price was very pleased with its content. Should one look into it a reader would find it a good, comprehensive guide to the Japanese warriors known as 'samurai'. There are specific armor and weaponry illustrations and descriptions, as well as four "see-through vellum sections" where each layer of clothing and protective armour offers insight into the dress of these warriors. The text flows evenly and can readily be understood. Should the reader be new to this area of study this volume would easily serve as a great introductory volume.

This oversize book is amply illustrated in color, and in 256 pages offers magnificently "the story of Japan's great warriors".

Semper Fi.

God's Samurai: Lead Pilot at Pearl Harbor (The Warriors)

Average customer rating:

johnarthur
The Providence of God
A Japanese Fighter Pilot becomes an Evangelist
Reconciliation in the midst of Clash of Civilizations
A materfully written and truly inspirational book!

God's Samurai: Lead Pilot at Pearl Harbor (The Warriors)
Katherine V. Dillon , Donald M. Goldstein , and Gordon W. Prange
Manufacturer: Potomac Books Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Japanese | Ethnic & National | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

Military & Spies | Professionals & Academics | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1574886959

Book Description

God's Samurai is the unusual story of Mitsuo Fuchida, the career aviator who led the attack on Pearl Harbor and participated in most of the fiercest battles of the Pacific war. A valuable record of major events, it is also the personal story of a man swept along by his times. Reared in the vanished culture of early twentieth-century Japan, war hero Fuchida returned home to become a simple farmer. After a scandalous love affair came his remarkable conversion to Christianity and years of touring the world as an evangelist. His tale is an informative, personal look at the war "from the other side."

Customer Reviews:

johnarthur.......2007-01-03

The Second World War completely changed its major participants and exacted some huge sacrifices from all involved. This and other books about the people who did the fighting shows how similar the attitudes were on all sides. The main character changes some of his thinking after the war, but his thoughts and actions during the war are really interesting, especially when compared to the thoughts and actions of the people on other sides.

The Providence of God.......2006-09-05

If ever a book (other than the Bible) showed the divine hand and providence of God, this is it. I wish I could have met the man.

A Japanese Fighter Pilot becomes an Evangelist.......2003-05-13

Excellent detailed story of Pearl Harbor's lead Navy pilot who through special circumstances wrought only by God found himself after the war travelling in the USA with Billy Graham and preaching the Gospel in Christian Crusades.

Reconciliation in the midst of Clash of Civilizations.......2001-10-24

An awesome true story. Definitely one of the three best books I've read in the past decade. In a time like this of Osama bin Labens and shocking inter-civilizational conflict, Fuchida's life story shows how true reconciliation and inter-cultural brotherhood can be experienced. It gives hope in spite of the huge obstacles to inter-cultural understanding. A powerful human interest story. Don't miss it!

A materfully written and truly inspirational book!.......2000-08-16

A friend of mine introduced me to this book in April of this year. He told me it was unlike any book about the Pacific war that he had ever read. Although skeptical at first, I sill went ahead and purchased the book. I left it on my book-shelve for several months and forgot all about it. As I began packing up in July to move I noticed this book again, so I picked it up and began reading it. I found the style of writing extremely fluid, and the chapters were concise. This well balanced account of Mitsuo Fuchida life traces it from his days as an Imperial naval aviator to Christian evangelist. 'God's Samurai' is a truly inspirational book filled with numerous accounts of honor, bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice - all the codes of a Samurai warrior. I have enjoyed this book tremendously, and I have just begun reading, 'Midway: The Battle That Doomed Japan: The Japanese Navy's Story' by Mitsuo Fuchida, Roger Pineau (Editor),Masatake Okumiya(Contributor). Both 'God's Samurai' and 'Midway' are 'must-have' books for anyone who is truly interested in the Pacific war and naval battles!

Average customer rating:

Very Good History
STILL THE MASTER
Good not great
An Exciting Account
Stephen Turnbull's best book

Samurai - The World of the Warrior
Stephen Turnbull
Manufacturer: Osprey Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Asia | History | Subjects | Books

Japan | Asia | History | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

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Military Science | History | Subjects | Books

ASIN: 1841769517
Release Date: 2006-06-27

Book Description

The world of the samurai - the legendary elite warrior cult of old Japan - has for too long been associated solely with military history and has remained a mystery to the general reader. In this exciting new book, Stephen Turnbull, the world's leading authority on the samurai, goes beyond the battlefield to paint a picture of the samurai as they really were. Familiar topics such as the cult of suicide, ritualised revenge and the lore of the samurai sword are seen in the context of an all-encompassing warrior culture that was expressed through art and poetry as much as through violence. Using themed chapters, the book studies the samurai through their historical development and their relationship to the world around them - relationships that are shown to persist in Japan even today.

Customer Reviews:

Very Good History.......2007-08-23

This book is the History of the Samurai Warrior and it is packed
with information. It not only gives a summery but explains the live a death of a proud warrior. It is a gripping account that tells a story
and keeps one's interest to understand a world that has inspired a nation.
This book is factual and compelling.

STILL THE MASTER.......2006-01-14

Mr. Turnbull is the best author in his field. He continues to shed light on a topic long ignored by military and non-miltraty historians.

Good not great.......2005-08-14

This is a good but not great book. Turnbull is clearly knows quite a bit about his subject and there is a lot of interesting information contained in this book. I think, however that there were a few issues that held "The World of the Warrior" back. First of all, his treatment of Medieval Japanese history is a bit too superficial. I know it was not his intention to write a narrative history, I still think, however, a more systematic approach was needed.

The most glaring issue was the fact that he essentially ignores the traditional weapons of the Samurai. The one chapter on weapons focuses on guns and artillery. It was an interesting chapter, but hardly sufficient. Especially when one realizes, as Turnbull himself makes clear, that guns were not Samurai weapons but rather weapons used by peasant soldiers. I am well aware that he did not intend his book to be only about the military aspects of Samurai life, but this book needed at least one chapter about the traditional, medieval weapons of the Samurai.

An Exciting Account.......2004-11-03

Turnbull has shown his merits as both a research scholar and author. His fundamental knowledge of both Japanese history, as well as, Samurai culture, has been exquisitly displayed in Samurai: The World of the Warrior. His writing style is very easy to follow and provides a dynamic glimpse into this veiled subculture. The descriptions of both battles and battlements is to say the very least, interesting and well thought out. As an amateur reader of all types of historical accounts, Turnbull has shown that Japanese culture is extremely interesting in its own right and clearly demonstrates that which makes the Samurai unique in this publication. For anyone interested in gaining an easy insight into this corner of history, I wholeheartedly recommend Turnbull's account.

Stephen Turnbull's best book.......2004-07-13

This book goes beyond samurai warfare.It goes into great detail about the origin of samurai traditions and how they still remained intact all the way to world war 2.

This book has a lot of illustrations almost one on every page.
if you want to learn about samurai you have to read this book.

Average customer rating:

Excellent book on medieval Japan

Wow what a price!

Serious book on Institutional History of Bakufu (Shogunate)

A great thorough Sengoku Jidai book

A thorough book

Warrior Rule in Japan (Cambridge History of Japan)
Marius Jansen
Manufacturer: Cambridge University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Asia | History | Subjects | Books
Japan | Asia | History | Subjects | Books
General | World | History | Subjects | Books
General | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
General | Sociology | Social Sciences | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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The Emergence of Meiji Japan (Cambridge History of Japan)

The Taming of the Samurai: Honorific Individualism and the Making of Modern Japan

A History of Japan, 1615-1867

Japanese Culture, 4th Edition (Updated and Expanded)

Hideyoshi (Harvard East Asian Monographs)

ASIN: 0521484049

Book Description

Japan was ruled by warriors for the better part of a millennium. From the twelfth to the nineteenth century its political history was dominated by the struggle of competing leagues of fighting men. This volume, comprised of chapters taken from Volumes 3 and 4 of The Cambridge History of Japan, traces the institutional development of warrior rule and dominance. Although samurai influence waned with the development of constitutional government, warrior values remained central to the ethical code of modern Japan.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent book on medieval Japan.......2004-06-14

This book is a must buy for those who are interested in medieval Japan, but can not afford the Cambridge History of Japan. This book consists of a articles written by such luminaries as Jeffrey Mass and John Whitney Hall. Taken together, their articles trace the political history of Japan from the Genpei War to the formation of the Bakuhan system under the Tokugawa. Essentially, it traces the political eveolution of medieval Japan.

Wow what a price!.......2002-09-22

Don't be shocked of the thickness of the book. I still have my (paperback) copy from '95,and flipped when I saw the price on Amazon.Com. Exellent book,and very deep and thorough information on (Sengoku Jidai era) 16th century Japanese history. This book is for the serious history student,and I mean money no object. Book talks about the military government of Kamakura, Muromachi, and Edo Bakufu's.

Serious book on Institutional History of Bakufu (Shogunate).......2001-09-07

Warrior rule in Japan is a compilation of essays by well-known authors on history of Japan: Jeffrey P. Mass, Ishii Susumi, John Whitney Hall and Harold Bolitho. This is a serious academic book on history of institutional development of Bakufu (the warrior government, or, as it is widely known, the Shogunate) in Japan from the times of Minamoto Yoritomo through Tokugawa Bakufu). In contrast to books by, for example Steven Turnbull, who wrote extensively on military strategies, tactics, campaigns and concentrated among other things on personalities of samurai leaders, this author goes into the in-depth analysis of the development of Bakufu as an institution and describes governance of Japanese society, gives some insight into economic and judicial powers of its branches.

"Warrior rule" is a serious reading for a serious scholar. Due to abundance of Japanese terms, it is not easy to read. However, without getting an exposure to the subject of this book, it is not possible to understand, what really stood behind many military campaigns and moves famous people of those turbulent times and feel the atmosphere of samurai age. The life of famous daimyo was not 100 per cent war, but also administration, politics, influence, economics, rituals, law and justice.

In addition, Harold Bolitho provides a general outline of the concept of Han, or local government, or the government of a daimyo, his area of administration and source of power and structure of loyalties. One learns here concepts of local samurai, fudai (or hereditary retainers, although this concept is quite described by other authors as well), shugo, jito and other concepts necessary to learn history of this legendary age.

A great thorough Sengoku Jidai book.......2000-08-01

This is a great alternative for those who wants to get the extensive "The Cambridge History of Japan Vol.3" Most of the contents were culled from the later. I find this book very helpful, and concise. It offers alot of good information of the Kamakura Bakufu and the invasion of the Mongols. Plus it's priced moderately. A must for students of the Sengoku Jidai.

A thorough book.......2000-07-31

This book is best suited for readers looking into specific topics of the vast Japanese Medieval history. For those, who is looking for another affordable alternative to the excellent "Cambridge History of Japan" series, I would recommend this book. It devotes a section to the Mongol Invasion and the Decline and Fall of the Kamakura Bakufu. This was culled from the Cambridge History of Japan and is very informative. The book is thorough and it should be among your collection of Sengoku Jidai books.

Average customer rating:

This book is heavy! Take your time reading it.

Samurai Zen: The Warrior Koans
Trevor Leggett
Manufacturer: Routledge
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Zen | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Zen Philosophy | Buddhism | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0415284651

Book Description

'The cherry-blossoms of Yoshino, which will bloom with the spring - If we cult the tree open to find them, where would they be?' SAMURAI ZEN: the Warrior Koans unites 100 of the rare riddles representing the core spiritual discipline of Japan's ancient Samurai tradition. Dating from the thirteenth-century records of Japan's Kamakura temples, and traditionally guarded with a reverent secrecy, they reflect the earliest manifestation of pure Zen in Japan as created by Zen Masters for their warrior pupils.
Unlike the classical Chinese koan riddles, the Japanese koans used incidents from everyday life-a broken teacup, a water jar, a cloth-to bring the warrior pupils of the Samurai to the Zen realization. As key preparatory tests, they were direct attempts to waken the sleeping wisdom in each man, found in the region of conscious meditation that is without thought. Their aim was to enable a widening of consciousness beyond the illusions of the limited self, and a joyful inspiration in life-a state thathas been compared to being free under a blue sky after imprisonment.

Customer Reviews:

This book is heavy! Take your time reading it........2004-06-07

There are a lot of books on martial arts, and how to use zen, martial arts, I Ching, Sun Tzu, and other even more esoteric Asian wisodm for everyday living. Some are very shallow, some are good, some are classics. The there is Samurai Zen: The Warrior Koans. This book is for the serious scholar. The first part is just forewords, telling the background of the Warrior Koans, how they were used, and how to use them in the present day. It also explains that it will take years for the dedicated reader to get through the book, and that I agree with!
What I like with this book is that it does not promise a quick fix. It clearly states that it takes time and dedication. Long time and serious dedication. I am not through it yet. I can also see that the very process of going through the book and understanding the koans will create a certain peace of mind.

Average customer rating:

Overview of Samurai History
Essential reading
Priceless illustrations
Good GENERAL history of samurai arms, armour, and events

Samurai Warriors
Stephen Turnbull
Manufacturer: Blandford Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Japan | Asia | History | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

Life & Institutions | Military | History | Subjects | Books

General | World | History | Subjects | Books

Military Science | History | Subjects | Books

Social History | Historical Study | History | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0713722851

Customer Reviews:

Overview of Samurai History.......2007-04-14

This book tells the tale of the Samurai, and therefore Japan itself, from their beginnings in Ancient times through the Gempei Wars and the Mongol Invasions, all through the Sengoku Jidai Period up to their official destruction in 1877, at the Battle of Ueno on 4 July. It also depicts sohei warrior monks and ninja assasins, as well as the Samurais' lesser compatriots, the ashigaru footmen and the ronin 'men of the waves', Samurai with no lord or cause. The text is detailed enough to provide a thorough introduction but is easy to read for someone who knows little or nothing of the topic. The artwork by James Field is incredible, providing nearly as much detail on the Samurai and their arsenal as the text, and capturing both the beauty and the carnage of their armor and their battles.

Essential reading.......2003-09-10

Written by the English-speaking world's leading historian of Japanese military and political history, Samurai Warriors is a well-written and masterfully illustrated survey of the Heian to late Edo periods. The author, fluent in Japanese and well-versed with the historical texts, has written several other outstanding books and articles that the novice and specialist will profit from reading. Enjoy!

Priceless illustrations.......2001-07-07

A fascinating read from an even more fascinating time period, Samuarai Warriors is an accessible history book for teachers and students alike. This book details various time periods and documents the "knights" of Medieval Japan. It begins with the period known as the Heian Period and the first known use of the term samurai and concludes with the end of the samurai as a seperate class in 1876, when it became forbidden to wear a sword. The urban samurai ceased to exist. The book follows a chronological order, dividing the book into periods of history concluding with the fall of the Tokugawa at the end of the Edo period. There are some interesting side excursions into history such as a section on the Christian Samurai. It tells the story of religious persecution both to Buddahists and Christians and how opposition to this intolerance arose and ultimately Twenty-Six Saints were crucified and became martyrs. It also tells of the banishment and expelling of all missionaries. Another interesting side bar is the discusion of the ronin or masterless samurai who was a renegade of sorts, the stuff of countless legends and even the subject of some films, most noticeably by Kurosawa. The information is a good steping stone for further exploration but typically for the novice it is suffice.This book is authoritative but not overly dry or pedantic as Turnbull teams up again with James Field for some of the best illustrations I've ever seen on the subject. The illustrations are superb and the photographs enhance the subject matter. This is a perfect book to compliment a teachers course on Japanese History or for the interested student of Japan or it's samurai.

Good GENERAL history of samurai arms, armour, and events.......2000-04-09

Turnbull provides a very accessible and clearly written narrative of samurai history, including details about personal arms and armour, as well as political anecdotes. As an intriguing outline, the book serves as a guide for more detailed exploration of other sources by more demanding historians.

Average customer rating:

Introduction to Samurai culture and armor
Excellent small reference book with great drawings!

Samurai 1550-1600 (Warrior)
Anthony Bryant
Manufacturer: Osprey Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Japan | Asia | History | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1855323451
Release Date: 1994-05-26

Book Description

This title details the culture, weapons, armour and training of the elite samurai warrior class in the fascinating Age of Battles period (1550-1600). This was a period of vital importance not only because of the political effects of the chaos but also due to the changes in warfare that occurred. In 1542 the Portuguese introduced the matchlock musket into Japanese warfare, and this book traces the effect that this important innovation had on the samurai. Life outside the field of battle is also examined, making this an unmissable book for those interested in this brave warrior caste.

Customer Reviews:

Introduction to Samurai culture and armor.......2007-04-02

The first chunk of this book describes the culture and daily life of the Bushi warrior class of the Sengoku Jidai period (roughly the dates in the title). This is full of interesting information about Samurai customs and personal possessions, like their Western-style pipes. The rest of the book examines weaponry, but especially armor. It lays a good foundation for the crazily small armor details good books on Samurai can be identified for. The plates are wonderful, as they are by Angus McBride. Among other things, they depict the crucial Battle of Nagashino and the Siege of Nagashino Castle, as well as sword and armor-making, Samurai training, and post-battle medical techniques.

Excellent small reference book with great drawings!.......2001-06-20

This book won't replace a 600 pages reference book, but is a great little book which actually packs quite a bit of information. The drawings are beautifula and very detailed, which contributes to making this book attractive to seriously interested people as well as children.

The Book of Samurai: The Warrior Class of Japan

Average customer rating:

Good reading with great pictures

The Book of Samurai: The Warrior Class of Japan
Stephen R. Turnbull
Manufacturer: New Line Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Japan | Asia | History | Subjects | Books

General | Military | History | Subjects | Books

General | World | History | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 157717285X

Customer Reviews:

Good reading with great pictures.......2004-01-14

The book was very informative. It told readers about everything from the way the samurai dressed to how they made their tea. In addition to the history of Japan during their rule, they also went into great detail about there weapons and armor, the way they fought, and the techniques used to in combat.

In addition, the book was filled with great pictures. Maps of the changing territories. Old Japanese art work. Even rare photographs of the Samurai in full battle gear. They did just compliment the reading, they offered even more information in the captions that wasn't even mentioned in the reading.

Book Description

A portrait of Japan's first significant samurai leader and his world

Was samurai warrior Taira Masakado a quixotic megalomaniac or a hero swept up by events beyond his control? Did he really declare himself to be the "New Emperor"? Did he suffer divine retribution for his ego and ambition? Filled with insurrections, tribal uprisings, pirate disturbances, and natural disasters, this action-packed account of Masakado's insurrection offers a captivating introduction to the samurai, their role in 10th-century society, and the world outside the capital-a must-read for those interested in early Japan, samurai warfare, or the mystique of ancient warriors.

Karl Friday (Athens, GA) is a Professor of History at the University of Georgia. A renowned expert on the samurai and early Japanese history, he has authored four books and appeared on numerous A&E, History, and Discovery Channel programs. He is active on several Web forums.

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