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Minamoto is born in Owari province, Japan.
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The lifetime of Minamoto Yoritomo
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Minamoto is banished to the Izu province in 1159, after his father was defeated while attempting to destroy the Taira clan. Minamoto is to remain in captivity for multiple years.
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Following his father's defeat at the hands of Taira Kiyomori, Minamoto is captured by the Taira clan and lives under their surveillance for 20 years.
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The Gempei war was the final skirmish between the Minamoto and Taira clans, the latter of which had dominated the government for decades, this war would ultimately lead to the formation of the Kamakura Shogunate.
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Minamoto, after being released, forms his own clan, with this he plans to invade the surrounding regions in an uprising against the Taira clan, and for control over the country.
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Shortly after the beginning of the Gempei war, the leader of the Taira clan, (and the same person who defeated Minamoto's father) dies and is replaced by Taira no Nuremori, who is more aggressive in his attacks against Minamoto.
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Minamoto establishes a new, independent government in Kyoto, in the form of:
Kumonjo - Board of Public Papers
Munchujo - Board of Questioning
Minamoto is also able to set up an army in the east. -
A period of time in which the Kamakura Shogunate ruled Japan.
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Minamoto destroys the Taira clan in a decisive victory, ending the Gempei war.
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Beginning in 1192, Minamoto introduces new policies such as Shugo and Jito, that are designed to improve relations between the Kamakura shogunate and the government in Kyoto.
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Giving each of his "Shugo" power over a specific province, Yoritomo maintained control of Japan, his Shugo acting as police, performing actions such as quashing rebellions and punishing murder. In 1192 it had been fully formed.
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At the age of 52, Minamoto dies, leaving behind an empire that would rule for many years onward.
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The Kamakura Period comes to an end after the Ashikaga take over and replace the Kamakura shoguns.