ninjashistorically

Ninja historically refers to covert agents, mercenaries, and assassins in feudal Japan. Their existence is often intertwined with myth and legend, making it difficult to distinguish fact from fiction. The term "ninja" itself, meaning "one who perseveres" or "stealthy person," became popular in the 20th century. During the Sengoku period, a time of intense civil war from the mid-15th to early 17th centuries, the demand for espionage, sabotage, and assassination services grew, leading to the development of specialized groups.

These individuals were known for their unconventional warfare tactics, which included espionage, infiltration, sabotage, assassination, and even the use of explosives. They were trained in various martial arts, disguise, and the use of specialized tools and weapons such as shuriken, kunai, and grappling hooks. Their primary clients were feudal lords (daimyo) who sought to gain an advantage over their rivals. The Iga and Kōka regions are famously associated with ninja clans. While their popular image often depicts them in black uniforms, historical evidence suggests they likely wore disguises to blend in with commoners. The effectiveness and prevalence of ninja are subjects of ongoing historical debate, with some scholars suggesting their numbers and impact were exaggerated over time.