Author: Thomas Lockley
Publisher: Harlequin
ISBN: 1488098751
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 518
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Book Description
This biography of the first foreign-born samurai and his journey from Africa to Japan is “a readable, compassionate account of an extraordinary life” (The Washington Post). When Yasuke arrived in Japan in the late 1500s, he had already traveled much of the known world. Kidnapped as a child, he had ended up a servant and bodyguard to the head of the Jesuits in Asia, with whom he traversed India and China learning multiple languages as he went. His arrival in Kyoto, however, literally caused a riot. Most Japanese people had never seen an African man before, and many of them saw him as the embodiment of the black-skinned Buddha. Among those who were drawn to his presence was Lord Nobunaga, head of the most powerful clan in Japan, who made Yasuke a samurai in his court. Soon, he was learning the traditions of Japan’s martial arts and ascending the upper echelons of Japanese society. In the four hundred years since, Yasuke has been known in Japan largely as a legendary, perhaps mythical figure. Now African Samurai presents the never-before-told biography of this unique figure of the sixteenth century, one whose travels between countries and cultures offers a new perspective on race in world history and a vivid portrait of life in medieval Japan. “Fast-paced, action-packed writing. . . . A new and important biography and an incredibly moving study of medieval Japan and solid perspective on its unification. Highly recommended.” —Library Journal (starred review) “Eminently readable. . . . a worthwhile and entertaining work.” —Publishers Weekly “A unique story of a unique man, and yet someone with whom we can all identify.” —Jack Weatherford, New York Times–bestselling author of Genghis Khan
Author: Thomas Lockley
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781335044983
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 0
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Book Description
The remarkable life of history's first foreign-born samurai and his astonishing journey from Northeast Africa to the heights of Japanese society. When Yasuke arrived in Japan in the late 1500s, he had already traveled much of the known world. Kidnapped as a child, he had ended up a servant and bodyguard to the head of the Jesuits in Asia, with whom he traversed India and China, learning multiple languages as he went. His arrival in Kyoto, however, literally caused a riot. Most Japanese people had never seen an African man before, and many of them saw him as the embodiment of the black-skinned (in local tradition) Buddha. Among those who were drawn to his presence were Lord Nobunaga, head of the most powerful clan in Japan, who made Yasuke a samurai in his court. Soon, he was learning the traditions of Japan's martial arts and ascending the upper echelons of Japanese society. In the four hundred years since, Yasuke has been known in Japan largely as a legendary, perhaps mythical, figure. Now African Samurai presents the never-before-told biography of this unique figure of the sixteenth century, one whose travels between countries, cultures, and classes offer a new perspective on race in world history and a vivid portrait of life in medieval Japan.
Author: Thomas Lockley
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781335141026
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 0
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Book Description
The remarkable life of history s first foreign-born samurai, and his astonishing journey from Northeast Africa to the heights of Japanese society.
Author: Tyrone R. Aiken MSPM
Publisher: Archway Publishing
ISBN: 1665758104
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 196
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Book Description
When John Womble, a young US Army Ranger, arrived at his posting at Camp Wood in Kumamoto, Japan, in 1954, his perception of Japan and its people had been molded by the post-WWII racially charged portrayals of the Land of the Rising Sun in American media. However, he quickly realized that the way American media had portrayed them was not the truth—just like the stereotypical and racist depictions of Black Americans never mirrored reality. Interested in learning more about the country and its traditions, Womble often ventured outside the base and into the small city, which housed a striking 400-year-old castle that had been the battleground of the great feudal lords of ancient Japan. Drawn more and more into Japanese history and culture, he took the time to learn the language and code of ethics. One day, he attended a boxing match where he witnessed a Samurai quickly knock out an American boxer. That’s when his life changed forever. Determined to become a Samurai, he was selected to attend the prestigious School of Samurai, where the training was rigorous. So rigorous in fact, that most students quit. But not Womble. He trained hard physically, handled the mental and emotional toll that the discipline imposed upon him, and eventually succeeded in becoming a Samurai. After being discharged from the military, Womble went back home no longer as the naïve teenager who left, but as the first African American Samurai. He committed his life to using his Samurai training to serve his community, helping inner-city youth to strive despite all the difficulties they faced, from poverty and gun violence to racism and lack of opportunities. This book, written by one of his students, is the ultimate testament to the long-lasting legacy and impact he had on those lucky enough to call him sensei.
Author: Takashi Okazaki
Publisher: Titan Comics
ISBN: 1787739457
Category : Comics & Graphic Novels
Languages : en
Pages : 180
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Book Description
The concluding volume of the director’s cut of the classic manga, featuring a specially commissioned cover by creator Takashi Okazaki. Japan has become a land of warriors, warlords and assassins, where the technology of the future exists alongside the brutal traditions of the past. This world is ruled by whoever possesses the legendary No.1 headband. After having defeated the Empty Seven Clan, Afro is forced to face a new threat: a deadly warrior who wears a teddy mask called Jinno. Will his bloodthirsty campaign of vengeance be thwarted, or will he finally face Justice, the man who killed his father, and claim the No.1 headband? Celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Afro Samurai anime starring Samuel L. Jackson!
Author: Diane Carol Fujino
Publisher: U of Minnesota Press
ISBN: 0816677867
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 476
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Book Description
The first biography of Asian American activist and Black Panther Party member Richard Aoki
Author: Jamal Turner
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 40
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Book Description
Warrior. Bodyguard. Samurai. Legend. His name was Yasuke and he was all of these things. But how did a warrior from Africa find himself serving under one of Japan's most powerful warlords? Find out in this epic tale of honor, loyalty, and duty. If you or your children love swords, samurai, or legendary warriors, you will love the tale of Yasuke! Featuring gorgeous full color illustrations, Yasuke: The Legend of the African Samurai is an all ages adventure perfect for any child or for those simply wanting to learn more about this real, relatively unknown warrior. Buy your copy today!
Author: Joseph E. Harris
Publisher: Penguin
ISBN: 0452011817
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 353
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Book Description
Africans and Their History chronicles in fascinating detail African history from prehistoric times through the end of the 20th century. Africa has witnessed the birth of many important developments in history. Human evolution, including the use of fire, food production via plant cultivation and animal domestication, as well as the creation of sophisticated tools and hunting weapons from iron took place in Africa. Other historical events such as the slave trade, which played a critical role in Western economic power, the rise of Islam as one of the world's dominant religions, and colonization and struggles for independence occurred on African soil. Originally publihsed in 1972, this second revised edition provides a concise and authoritative overview of the diverse peoples and societies of Africa and includes events through the end of the 20th century, including the emergence of a free South Africa and its landmark enactment of a constitution that recognizes even more rights than the American constitution.
Author: Ted Harvey
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 53
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Book Description
YASUKE, THE BLACK SAMURAI From Northeast Africa, the first foreign-born samurai Yasuke journeys far from his roots in the Dark Continent to reach Japan. From being a slave traded off to the Arabs and the Portuguese, to become a legendary black samurai in the history of Japan, Yasuke's story is a riveting tale. When Yasuke set foot in Japan in the late 1500s, the country was in the throes of civil strife known today as the Sengoku Jidai period, a seminal period in the history of the nation. It was a time when different powerful clans were dueling with each other for hegemony. Yasuke's arrival in Kyoto, the spiritual capital of the country caused a stampede with the frenzied mob thronging the streets to catch a glimpse of the first black man that had ever set foot on their country. From being subjected to a humiliating bathing ceremony to wash off the color of his skin to fighting in duels alongside the legendary samurai Oda Nobunaga, Yasuke's life is nothing short of a legend. Lord Nobunaga, belonging to the most powerful Oda clan was so impressed and intrigued by Yasuke's height, physical stamina, and strength that within two years Yasuke was bestowed with a samurai title. Although much of Yasuke's life before arriving in Japan and after Lord Nobunaga's death is little known, the African samurai's story is a compelling read. If you are a history buff and if you liked The African Samurai book, this book on Yasuke will not disappoint you.
Author: Jeff Taylor
Publisher: Independently Published
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 58
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Book Description
Brought to Japan in the 16th century by Portuguese traders, he was the first person of African origin who became an instant celebrity. Rumored to be about 7 feet tall, and possessing the strength of 10 men, he garnered the attention of the famed warlord, Oda Nobunaga. He served his master diligently through many battle victories. He is most famously associated with the title of African Samurai. This is the story of Yasuke. Not much is known about Yasuke. From the historical accounts that are available, we know that, despite his intimidating demeanor, he was a gentle person. This was the first impression Nobunaga had of him when he first saw him surrounded by a large curious crowd in Kyoto. Being taken to immediately, he frequently accompanied the warlord and even dined with him personally which was a rare occurrence at the time. Come and meet the legendary non-Japanese figure in Japanese history. This wonderful book will help you acquire unique insights into Yasuke's life and times. Here's a preview of what you'll discover in this book: Yasuke's origins, his travels and how he ended up in Japan The cultural context in Japan, and how Yasuke was perceived How Yasuke met Nobunaga and deepening of their association How Yasuke became a samurai warrior Adopting the Bushido Code Before and after Nobunaga's death ..... and much more! Nobunaga was captured by his nemesis Akechi Mitsuhide and forced to commit suicide. Yasuke was captured alive but set free after being deemed less than human. It is not really known what happened to Yasuke, thereafter, or how he lived the rest of his life. This amazing book will grant you unparalleled access to the life of the greatest non-Japanese samurai. So, scroll up and click the "Buy now with 1-click" button and get your copy!
