Tensho facts for kids

Tensho refers to two different time periods in Japanese history. These periods are called "eras" or "nengō" (年号) in Japan. An era name is used to mark a specific period of time, often linked to the reign of an emperor or a significant event. Think of it like how we might say "the Victorian era" to talk about Queen Victoria's time.

What is a Japanese Era?

In Japan, eras are a way to count years. Each emperor's reign usually has one or more era names. When a new emperor takes the throne, or when something very important happens, the era name can change. This system has been used for a very long time. It helps people keep track of history and important events.

Tenshō Era (Heian Period)

This first Tenshō era was quite short. It lasted from 1131 to 1132. This period was part of the larger Heian period (794-1185). The Heian period is known for its beautiful art, literature, and the rise of the samurai class. During this time, the emperor was still very important, but powerful families also had a lot of influence.

Key Facts about Heian Tenshō

• Dates: 1131-1132
• Emperor: Emperor Sutoku
• Historical Period: Late Heian period
• Significance: This era was a brief moment within a long period of cultural development in Japan.

Tenshō Era (Momoyama Period)

The second Tenshō era was much longer and more famous. It lasted from 1573 to 1592. This period was part of the Momoyama period (1568-1600). The Momoyama period was a time of great change and unification in Japan. Before this, Japan had been in a long period of civil war, with many powerful warlords fighting each other.

Unifying Japan during Momoyama Tenshō

During this Tenshō era, three very important leaders worked to bring Japan together. They were Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Oda Nobunaga's Role

Oda Nobunaga started the process of unifying Japan. He was a powerful warlord who used new weapons, like firearms, to win battles. He controlled a large part of central Japan. However, he was betrayed and died in 1582, during the Tenshō era.

Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Success

After Nobunaga's death, Toyotomi Hideyoshi took over. He continued Nobunaga's work and managed to unite almost all of Japan under his rule. He built many castles and introduced important changes, like a land survey and a "sword hunt" to disarm farmers. He ruled until his death in 1598, shortly after the Tenshō era ended.

Tokugawa Ieyasu's Legacy

Tokugawa Ieyasu was another strong leader. He was a close ally of Nobunaga and Hideyoshi. After Hideyoshi's death, Ieyasu became the most powerful figure. He eventually established the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603, which ruled Japan for over 250 years. This marked the beginning of a long period of peace and stability.

Key Facts about Momoyama Tenshō

• Dates: 1573-1592
• Emperors: Emperor Ōgimachi and Emperor Go-Yōzei
• Historical Period: Momoyama period
• Significance: This era saw the end of Japan's long civil wars and the beginning of its unification under powerful leaders.