Genryaku

Genryaku is a Japanese era name, or nengō, that followed Shōho and preceded Heiji. It spanned the years 1156 to 1159. The Genryaku era is significant for its association with the Hōgen Rebellion. This was a civil war that took place in Japan in 1156, during the late Heian period. The rebellion primarily involved samurai clans and members of the imperial family vying for political power.

The Hōgen Rebellion saw factions supporting Emperor Go-Shirakawa clash with those supporting Emperor Sutoku. The conflict ultimately resulted in a victory for Go-Shirakawa's supporters and led to the exile of key figures. The aftermath of the rebellion significantly weakened the Fujiwara clan's grip on power and paved the way for the rise of the samurai class. Following the Genryaku era, the Heiji Rebellion occurred in 1159, further consolidating the power of the samurai, particularly the Taira clan. The short but impactful Genryaku period represents a crucial turning point in Japanese history, marking a shift in the political landscape from aristocratic rule towards military dominance.