The Bushido Code: The Samurai Culture

The Samurai were an honorable group of warriors who followed a strict detailed code of conduct called The Bushido Code. Every aspect of their life was dictated by these set of rules in order to live as true loyal men. The Bushido Code not only instructed the Samurai on what to do in times of war or combat, but also how to live during times of peace. Since its origins in feudal Japan, the Bushido Code guided the Samurai on the path of righteousness till death. Today this unwritten, highly discipline code greatly influences numerous aspects of Japan 's current culture and other places in the world.

The origins of the Samurai can be traced back to the Taiko Reforms in 645 A.D. During this period large wealthy landowners known as daimyos established

The armor was made from leather and numerous metals designed for agility while providing a decent amount of protection along with mempo or face armor that instilled fear into their enemies. The equipment that they were provided along with their intense training proved the Samurai to be worthy bodyguards to their daimyos (Mensikova, Daenen, Foerst). Later by the 12th century, the Samurai had moved from solely providing protection to effectively holding both political as well as military ranks in Japan. This would last until the mid 19th century with the Meiji Restorations which brought a constitutional monarchy along with democratic reforms. Backed by public support, the Meiji Emperor disbanded the Samurai and reduced the daimyo 's power (Mensikova et al.). Having lost their place of dominance in Japan most integrated back into society relying on their skills in the arts while others became merchants or farmers living their lives in peace.

Throughout the Samurai 's campaign as warriors and politicians they followed a strict moral code known as Bushido. The word Bushido originates from the Japanese words "bushi" meaning “warrior” and "do" meaning “way” with the full translation means “way of the warrior” (Lindberg). The code evolved over time to ensure a Samurai 's loyalty to Japan as well as to

The Bushido code is based on eight virtues on top of the basic ideology of dedicating every day to the life of a being warrior. The first virtue is rectitude or justice which dictates that the Samurai would be able to make quick and just decisions. The virtue of courage reflects the ability to follow what is right according to their beliefs. Each action is done for the right reason. Benevolence or mercy keeps Samurai from mindlessly killing; they must show mercy when it is justified. The virtue of respect means that a Samurai should value all life in everything they do and say. Respect should be given no matter if it views differ from their own. Honesty in a Samurai is vital in order to gain both respect and trust from others. The virtue of honor focuses on the Samurai living every moment defending their personal dignity even to the death. Loyalty leads the Samurai to value their comrades along with protecting them on the