Book excerpt: A captivating and comprehensive guide to Japan's elite class of warriors. The Samurai played a leading role in Japanese society for centuries, and this is the first encyclopedia that showcases the fascinating history and culture of these enigmatic warriors. The book contains 171 alphabetical entries and informative sidebars on a broad variety of fascinating topics, including: Samurai weapons and armor, including the fearsome katana sword. Famous Samurai including Miyamoto Musashi, Japan's greatest swordsman; Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate; and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a unifier of Japan and notorious persecutor of Christians in the 16th century. Battles and wars, including the Battle of Sekigahara, the largest battle ever to take place in Japan and the Boshin War, which led to the fall of the shogunate and restoration of imperial power. The Bushido code--the Way of the Warrior or legendary Samurai code of chivalry and honor. A foreword by Samurai scholar and martial arts expert Alexander Bennett provides expert insights into the lives and philosophy of the Samurai. Also included are many informative sidebars, suggestions for further reading, a selection of primary sources, and over 125 illustrations (including 70 in full-color).