Minamoto no Yoshitsune: The Tragic Genius of Japan’s Greatest Samurai

Minamoto no Yoshitsune: The Tragic Genius of Japan’s Greatest Samurai

Step into the turbulent world of 12th-century Japan, where the Minamoto and Taira clans waged a brutal war for control of the nation. This video traces the life of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a legendary samurai whose brilliance on the battlefield was matched only by the tragedy of his fate. From his birth during the Heiji Rebellion and mythical training with mountain spirits, to his victories at Ichinotani, Yashima, and Dan-no-Ura, Yoshitsune’s tactics reshaped the Genpei War. But his rising fame sparked jealousy from his brother Yoritomo, the shogun in Kamakura, leading to betrayal, exile, and a tragic end in Hiraizumi. Discover how Yoshitsune’s story became legend—immortalized in Kabuki, Noh, and centuries of Japanese folklore. A tale of loyalty, genius, and heartbreak, this is the story of a warrior who became a symbol of brilliance betrayed.

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:52 Origins of the Genius
03:32 The Boy Awakened to Revenge
04:15 Hiraizumi Days
05:28 The Turmoil Begins
07:01 Reuniting with the Brother
07:09 The Military Genius
09:24 Rift with Yoritomo
14:15 From Hero to Fugitive
15:54 Final Days
17:12 Outro

#japanhistory
#samurai
#shogunate
#shogun
#kamakura
#feudaljapan