Political and Social Changes in the Ashikaga Period

Shugo

Constables appointed to govern provinces under Ashikaga.

Shoen

Land estates declining in power during civil conflict.

Daimyo

Independent regional rulers emerging during Ashikaga period.

Onin War

Conflict leading to instability and warring states.

Bushido

Samurai loyalty code weakened during Sengoku period.

Ge-koku-jo

Lower ranks subjugating higher ranks for territory.

Kinkakuji

Zen Buddhist temple built by 3rd shogun.

Constables

Military leaders taking control of estates by 1460s.

Market Towns

Settlements emerging to support court and monasteries.

Craft Guilds

Professional organizations established for various trades.

Money Economy

Use of currency, notably Chinese copper coins, revived.

Wako

Pirates causing issues in Japan and against Korea.

Joukamachi

Towns developed around main castles for commerce.

Rapid Turnover

Major daimyo decreased from 142 to 45 by 1593.

Local Military Leaders

Former vassals rising to power post-Onin War.

Retainers

Varied support staff for daimyo and military leaders.

Fortified Castles

Strategically built for defense and control of regions.

Money Lenders

Emergence of financial institutions for trade support.

Checkpoints

Stations collecting duties on goods in transit.

Trade with China

Revived in 1271, formalized by 1325.

Constabulary Families

Surviving families gaining strength post-Onin War.