How did the samurai govern local provinces?

Samurai governed local provinces through a system of feudalism, where they served as military governors or 'daimyo'.

In the feudal system of Japan, the samurai were the ruling class, holding significant power and influence. They governed local provinces as daimyo, or territorial lords, who were granted land and authority by the shogun, the military dictator of Japan. This system was particularly prevalent during the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, and later solidified in the Edo period.

The daimyo were responsible for maintaining order and providing military support to the shogun. They had the authority to establish laws and regulations within their territories, collect taxes, and maintain a private army of samurai warriors, known as 'bushi'. The bushi were loyal to their daimyo and served as their military force. In return, the daimyo provided them with land, protection, and a share of the tax revenue.

The governance of local provinces by the samurai was not a centralised system. Each daimyo had considerable autonomy in managing their territory. They established their own administrative structures, legal codes, and economic policies. However, they were expected to demonstrate loyalty to the shogun and contribute to national defence.

The samurai's rule was characterised by a strict code of conduct, known as 'bushido'. This code emphasised honour, loyalty, and martial skill. It guided the samurai's actions and decisions, both on the battlefield and in governance. The samurai were also expected to promote and uphold Confucian values, such as respect for authority and social hierarchy.

The samurai's governance of local provinces was not without conflict. Power struggles between different daimyo were common, leading to periods of civil war, such as the Sengoku period. These conflicts often revolved around control of land and resources, as well as disputes over succession.

In summary, the samurai governed local provinces through a system of feudalism, serving as military governors or daimyo. They had significant autonomy in managing their territories, but were expected to demonstrate loyalty to the shogun and uphold the samurai code of conduct. Their rule was characterised by a mix of military strength, administrative skill, and adherence to Confucian values.