The eta and the hinin were the lowest classes, technically unclean and sub-human respectively. The eta occupations (entertainers, prostitutes) broke Buddhist taboos, and the hinin were functionaries such as guards, sweepers, and executioners. In the 1800s, the term burakumin began to be used for both groups. Those who were simply disgraced, rather than born into the hinin had some chance to leave the caste.
From highest to lowest, the Japanese feudal classes were
Daimyo (warlords)
Samurai (warriors) * some artisans
Peasants
Merchants, Traders, Townspeople
Eta and Hinin
Merchantseta
ETAHinin
The clan leaders (daimyos) were the highest class other than the Imperial family.
The eta and the hinin were the lowest classes, technically unclean and sub-human respectively. The eta occupations (entertainers, prostitutes) broke Buddhist taboos, and the hinin were functionaries such as guards, sweepers, and executioners. In the 1800s, the term burakumin began to be used for both groups. Those who were simply disgraced, rather than born into the hinin had some chance to leave the caste.From highest to lowest, the Japanese feudal classes wereDaimyo (warlords)Samurai (warriors) * some artisansPeasantsMerchants, Traders, TownspeopleEta and HininMerchantsetaETAHinin
A feudal system
A. Power was based on class relationships
decentralized government
The lowest class of people in Japanese feudalism were the hinin, who were considered outcasts and had no rights or privileges in society. Merchants, while initially held in low regard due to their association with money-making, eventually gained wealth and influence as the economy developed.
The clan leaders (daimyos) were the highest class other than the Imperial family.
The clan leaders (daimyos) were the highest class other than the Imperial family.
The lowest class in Japanese feudalism was the "eta," often referred to as outcasts or untouchables. They were marginalized and faced significant discrimination, working in occupations considered impure, such as leatherworking or handling the dead. This social hierarchy was rigid, with the eta occupying a position outside the traditional four-class system of samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants. Their status reflected the broader societal norms and values of feudal Japan.
Feudalism in japan was similar to European feudalism as they both involved the same heirachy and therefore was quite simialr apart from the class definitions.
The eta and the hinin were the lowest classes, technically unclean and sub-human respectively. The eta occupations (entertainers, prostitutes) broke Buddhist taboos, and the hinin were functionaries such as guards, sweepers, and executioners. In the 1800s, the term burakumin began to be used for both groups. Those who were simply disgraced, rather than born into the hinin had some chance to leave the caste.From highest to lowest, the Japanese feudal classes wereDaimyo (warlords)Samurai (warriors) * some artisansPeasantsMerchants, Traders, TownspeopleEta and HininMerchantsetaETAHinin
Merchants were the "lowest class" meaning they made less money in most cases than other social classes.
Both the European and Japanese feudal systems developed as a result of a weak central government.
A feudal system
Serfs, who were basically slaves tied down to the land and forced to work. They were the poorest and lowest class in society.
Kings and queens were at the top. After them were lords and ladies. Then came knights and vassals. The lowest class was made up of peasants and serfs
Feudalism