Conland, Thomas D. Weapons and Fighting Techniques of the Samurai Warrior 1200-1877 AD

Samurai is the term for the military nobility of pre-industrial Japan. The word samurai is derived from the archaic Japanese verb samorau, changed to saburau, meaning "to serve"; thus, a samurai is a servant, i.e. the servant of a lord. The Samurai warrior is one of the most famous types of soldier, with his intricate armour, longbow and distinctive katana sword. "Weapons and Fighting Techniques of the Samurai Warrior" examines the various arms that fought on a medieval Japanese battlefield, and how the equipment and training of the Samurai developed over time. Even the coming of gunpowder did not wipe out this unique warrior class, which only died out in the nineteenth century. Packed with colour illustrations and box features throughout, this book covers all aspects of the Samurai army and its equipment, from the skirmishers to the mounted warriors. It explains the role of each type of soldier and weapon on the battlefield, and why it was - or was not - successful. There are also chapters on the introduction of firearms, the use of artillery and command and battlefield techniques. With detailed colour illustrations and fact-filled accompanying text, the book is the essential guide for anyone interested in Oriental warfare.