Assassin’s Creed Shadows, with Yasuke, a character based on the life of a historical figure whose story has already been represented in other games like Nioh, 2017, and even became an anime released in 2021. But what is the source of this samurai?
Yasuke, a samurai of African origin, sailed for the complex cultural and political interactions of a foreign country, reaching a status that few could imagine. From its mysterious origins in Africa to its loyal service to the powerful Daimyo Oda Nobunaga, the trajectory of this samurai is a narrative of admiration, respect and integration in a strict society.
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What is Yasuke’s true story?
Yasuke’s story is a fascinating account that dates back to 16th century Japan, an era of conflict and dynamic changes. He was born in Africa, possibly in the region that today corresponds to Mozambique, although other theories suggested origins in Sudan or Ethiopia. His story begins to take shape when he is taken to Japan by Alessandro Valignano, an Italian Jesuit in charge of the Jesuit missions inspection in India, China and Japan, around 1579.
When Yasuke arrived in Japan, he quickly drew attention due to his height and imposing physical appearance. It was about 1.88 meters high, much higher than the average Japanese at the time, and their dark skin and physical strength made great impression. The news of his presence reached the ears of Oda Nobunaga, one of the most powerful Daimyos in Japan, who commanded much of the territory.
In 1581, Yasuke was presented to Nobunaga. The mighty Daimyo was fascinated with his unusual appearance, to the point of sending him to wash if his dark skin was natural or painted. Confirming authenticity, Nobunaga decided to take Yasuke at his service, which quickly gained the confidence and admiration of Nobunaga, which treated him with great respect. Nobunaga presented Yasuke with a residence and sword, symbols of the samurai status he had just achieved.
In the Nobunaga service, Yasuke participated in several important military campaigns. He demonstrated great loyalty and skill, playing an active role in the defense of Nobunaga’s territories. Despite his foreign origin, he was able to integrate into the Court and develop significant relationships with other members of the Samurai elite.
Yasuke’s life changed dramatically in 1582 during the infamous incident at the Honnō-Ji Temple in Kyoto. Akechi Mitsuhide, one of Nobunaga’s trust generals, rebelled against him. Nobunaga was trapped in the temple and, in the face of imminent capture, committed seppuku, Japanese ritual suicide. Yasuke was next to Nobunaga during these tragic events and bravely fought Mitsuhide forces.
After Nobunaga’s death, Yasuke was captured by Mitsuhide’s men. However, Mitsuhide, not knowing exactly what to do with Yasuke, decided to give him to the Jesuit missionaries in Kyoto. Mitsuhide’s decision may have been motivated by respect for Yasuke’s foreign origin or his curiosity about the presence of an African in Japan. Yasuke’s final destination after these events remains unknown, but it is likely that he has been exiled or sent back to India.
Yasuke’s story is a striking example of cultural exchange during a period of intense transformation in Japan. His life has become legendary and inspired various works of fiction, including anime, movies and books. In 2021, Netflix launched an anime titled “Yasuke”, which mixes historical elements and fantasy, highlighting Yasuke’s uniqueness as an African samurai in feudal Japan. Yasuke remains an enigmatic and fascinating figure whose life illustrates the complexities of cultural interactions and the surprising ways that lives can take.
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