The Last Samurai

Statement of The Main Idea

Who : Saigo Takamori was the last Samurai in the 19th century. Saigo was not only a skilled warrior but also dedicated to the Neo-confucianisme and Buddishme. Saigo established the military academy in Satsuma. He rejected the new culture and political system of the Meiji Goverment. He kept his way to stayed in Bushido Value

What : A leaders od Japan's 19th-century drive to modernize, at the same time a defender of it's ancient Samurai values. Saigo takamori dramatic last stand embodied his nation's identity crisis. 

When : Saigo starting his rebellion againts the Imperial Army at 22 September 1877 in Edo (Now Tokyo). but his forces withdraw at Mt. Shiroyama

Where : At the Mt. Shiroyama, his forces was surrounded by the Imperial Army.

Why : Saigo Takamori has already know that his forces would never win against the Imperial Army. but he would never give up without a fight. he and his forces choose to fight until their last heartbeat. that's the way to keep their honor as a Samurai.

How : According to tradition, he fell to the ground and told one of his fellow fighters "Right here should do. please do me the honor decapitating me". although some  dispute this theory. one account describes how he slowly sat up, looked in thr direction of the imperial palace, solemnly gripped his dagger, and performed ritual disembowelment on himself (Seppuku).

 

 Conclusion

Saigo Takamori (1828-1877) is remembered both for his leading role in the Meiji Restoration that overthrew the shogunate in 1868 and for his unsuccessful rebellion against the new goverment less than a decade later. Although he died a renegade, a goverment pardon rehabilitated his reputation.

Source : https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/history-magazine/article/saigo-takamori-the-last-samurai

https://www.nippon.com/en/views/b07204/