Saigo+Takamori+-+Brandon+and+Diana

Saigo Takamori (1827-1877)

 THE LAST SAMURAI


"Once ours, always ours. What's theirs, Keep it theirs."

**__Ideas & Beliefs__ **

 * Opposed to Western influence and presence in Japan. Instead of Infrastructural advancements, He wished a more militaristically oriented system.
 * Wanted to preserve the Samurai as a class and supported the Samurai spirit in Japan.
 * Valued pride and sacrifice for the benefit of others, and especially for the country.
 * Valued the symbolism behind the sword that samurais carry.
 * To die and sacrifice one's life for Japan is an honor, not a tragedy.



__**About Saigo Takamori**__

 * Born as the son of a lower ranking samurai in 1827, Kagoshima, Japan
 * Said to have all of the traditional samurai characteristics: bravery, respect, rectitude, honor, frugality, loyalty, and benevolence even towards the people who were in a lower status or rank.
 * Leader of the Satsuma clan and the Satsuma Rebellion
 * Chose to die as a true samurai committing seppuku (ritual suicide) on September 24,1877