Hosokawa Harumoto facts for kids

Hosokawa Harumoto (born 1514, died 1563) was an important Japanese leader, known as a daimyō. A daimyō was a powerful lord who ruled over a large area of land. Harumoto lived during a time in Japan called the Muromachi and Sengoku periods, which were times of great change and sometimes war. He was the main leader of the Hosokawa clan, a very powerful family. His childhood name was Sōmei-maru. Harumoto was the son of Hosokawa Sumimoto, another famous samurai.

Early Life and Leadership

Harumoto became the head of his family when he was only seven years old, after his father passed away in 1520. Because he was so young, a trusted helper named Miyoshi Motonaga supported him and helped him lead. Harumoto's childhood name was also Rokurō.

Becoming a Powerful Leader

In 1531, Harumoto won an important battle against another leader named Hosokawa Takakuni. This victory helped him gain a lot of power. However, Harumoto became worried that his helper, Motonaga, was becoming too powerful. So, the next year, he removed Motonaga from his position.

After this, Harumoto controlled a large area of Japan called Kinai. This area included important provinces like Yamashiro, Yamato, Kawachi, Izumi, and Settsu. He also became the Kanrei, which meant he was a top advisor and deputy to the Shōgun. The Shōgun was the military ruler of Japan.

Challenges and Defeat

Harumoto's power was challenged in 1543 when Hosokawa Ujitsuna, who was like a son to Takakuni, started a rebellion. Then, in 1549, Miyoshi Nagayoshi, who was a very important follower and the son of Motonaga, turned against Harumoto. Nagayoshi joined forces with Ujitsuna.

Because of this betrayal, Harumoto was defeated. He, along with Ashikaga Yoshiteru (who was the 13th Shōgun), and Yoshiteru's father, Ashikaga Yoshiharu, had to leave the capital city. They moved to a different province called Ōmi.

Later Years and Retirement

Harumoto and Shōgun Yoshiteru continued to fight against Nagayoshi for control of the government. However, Harumoto was eventually beaten. In 1561, he made peace with Nagayoshi and decided to retire from his leadership role.

Death and Family Legacy

Harumoto passed away from an illness in 1563. After his death, the main branch of the Hosokawa clan lost its power and influence.

Harumoto's Family

• Father: Hosokawa Sumimoto
• Mother: Seitai-in
• Wives:

* A daughter of Sanjo Kin'yori * A daughter of Rokkaku Sadayori

• Children:

* Hosokawa Akimoto (1548–1615) * Hosokawa Haruyuki * A daughter who married Asakura Yoshikage * A daughter who married Inoo Sadamune * A daughter who married Daidoji Akiei