teiko

Teiko refers to a period in Japanese history, specifically the late Heian period, roughly from the late 12th century. It is characterized by a weakening of the central imperial government and the rise of powerful provincial warrior clans. This era saw increased political instability and frequent conflicts as samurai families vied for influence and control. The imperial court, while still holding symbolic authority, found its actual power diminishing significantly.

The economic and social structures also underwent transformations during teiko. The traditional aristocratic bureaucracy began to lose its grip, and land ownership became increasingly concentrated in the hands of the warrior class. This shift laid the groundwork for the subsequent establishment of the Kamakura shogunate, which marked the beginning of samurai rule in Japan. The teiko period is often seen as a transitional phase, bridging the aristocratic dominance of the Heian period and the military government that would define much of medieval Japan. Understanding this era is crucial for comprehending the evolution of Japanese political and military systems.