What was the social structure in Tokugawa Japan? Explain the role of family in Tokugawa Japan.

Warriors/Courtiers (Highest class)

Peasantry

Artisans/Craftsmen

Merchants/Tradesmen

Townspeople

Outcasts and Ninjas (Lowest class)

(Funfact: Warriors didn't get much pay-some of the Artisans were richer than the Warriors, but the warriors had pride, so they did not show it.)

There was a four tier system.

1) samurai: wielded enormous power

2) farmer / peasant: produced all the food

3) artisan: produced necessary goods (clothes, ect.)

4 (lowest class) : merchants: traders, shopkeepers

shogun, buddist & shino priest were above all of the classes.

The family name was important as the Tokugawa Clan ruled Japan for a while. The family rank was important. If you're born in a family of low rank, you can expect not being able to get a high rank position.