Shinsengumi
The Shinsengumi (1863 – 1869) was one of the shogunate’s army and was active in Kyoto at the end of the Edo period. Led by Kondō Isami and Hijikata Toshizō, the Shinsengumi, formerly known as Roshigumi was organized by the shogunate for the guarding of the 14th Shogun Tokugawa Iemochi, founded by the lord of Aizu-han Matsudaira Katamori. They gained considerable fame in the Ikedaya Jiken and the August 18 coup events etc.
With the Taisei Hokan proclamation (returning power to the emperor) and the Oseifukko-no-Daigorei (restoration of the Imperial rule) in force respectively in October and December 1867, the Boshin War broke out between the former shogunate forces and the new government. After heavy losses in the Toba-Fushimi Battle, the Shinsengumi continued to fight the antagonists and unfortunately suffered from a great disadvantage with Kondō Isami being decapitated in Itabashi on 25 April 1868. Hijikata Toshizō, who re-established the Hakodate Government army force of the former shogunate, was killed in the Hakodate all-out assault on 11 May 1869.
The Shinsengumi, tiding over the late Tokugawa period’s turbulent state, remained loyal and bravely fought against the revolution initiated by new government forces. Most members fought to their ends during the battles. It was however their way of life to sacrifice oneself in loyalty to the shogunate and belief in Bushido attracted many people worldwide and remained one of Japanese history’s favourable and prominent figures.
As time goes by, the Shinsengumi continues to be an inspiration for anime, games, TV and movies, including Rurouni Kenshin, Hakuoki, and Gintama etc which are of all-time favourites worldwide. All of these refer to the history of the Shinsengumi and the leading characters in the team. The portrayal of characters enhances the entertainment and commercial elements but inevitably blurs the sense of historical reality.
After over 150 years later, every piece of the Shinsengumi still touches us at large, bringing us happiness for their success as well as sorrow for their ill-fate and downfall. This website and the publication have been made in the hope of promoting the Shinsengumi to the worldwide audiences, who would be interested in knowing their loyalty and heroic deeds. Their greatness is to be recognized for coming generations.
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