Saigō Takamori (Takanaga) was a Japanese samurai and nobleman. He was one of the most influential samurai in Japanese history and one of the three great nobles who led the Meiji Restoration. Living during the late Edo and early Meiji periods, he later led the Satsuma Rebellion against the Meiji government. Historian Ivan Morris described him as "the quintessential hero of modern Japanese history".
A portrait of Takamori by Ishikawa Shizumasa
Saigō preparing for war
Saigō Takamori (upper right) directing his troops at the Battle of Shiroyama
Saigō Takamori Gunmusho (軍務所) banknote, issued in 1877 to finance his war effort. Japan Currency Museum
The Meiji Restoration, referred to at the time as the Honorable Restoration , and also known as the Meiji Renovation, Revolution, Regeneration, Reform, or Renewal, was a political event that restored practical imperial rule to Japan in 1868 under Emperor Meiji. Although there were ruling emperors before the Meiji Restoration, the events restored practical abilities and consolidated the political system under the Emperor of Japan. The goals of the restored government were expressed by the new emperor in the Charter Oath.
Tokugawa Yoshinobu informs officials of his decision at Nijō-jō in 1867.
Emperor Meiji receives Dutch Minister-Resident Dirk de Graeff van Polsbroek in 1868.
Allegory of the New fighting the Old, in early Japan Meiji, around 1870
