Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣 秀吉) (February 2, 1536 or March 26, 1537–September 18, 1598) was a military leader of Japan. He was born in Owari (which is now called Nagoya city, Aichi prefecture). He grew up to become a daimyo. Hideyoshi came to power after his master, Oda Nobunaga. When Oda killed by Akechi Mitsuhide, he defeated Akechi soon later, and unified Japan. He built the Osaka Castle in Osaka. He became a regent for the Emperor. The time of Hideyoshi's rule is usually called the Momoyama period.

In this Japanese name, the family name is Toyotomi.

Portrait of Toyotomi Hideyoshi drawn in 1601.

Toyotomi Hideyoshi made many changes in laws and culture. For example, he made a law that only the samurai could carry weapons.