hatamoto

Hatamoto were samurai who directly served the Tokugawa shogunate in feudal Japan. The term translates to "banner guard" or "flag retainer," indicating their role as personal retainers to the shogun. Hatamoto occupied a privileged position within the samurai class, enjoying higher stipends and closer proximity to the shogun's authority than many other samurai. They were distinguished by their own flags and banners, which they displayed in battles and ceremonies.

Membership in the hatamoto class was hereditary, and their duties were varied. They served as administrative officials, military commanders, and bodyguards. Hatamoto were expected to maintain a high level of military readiness and were responsible for providing troops when called upon by the shogunate. Their loyalty was paramount, and they were often entrusted with sensitive missions. The hatamoto system was a crucial element of the Tokugawa shogunate's control structure, ensuring a loyal and dedicated warrior class at the heart of the government.