For most of the medieval period, feudalism was the dominant social system across the world. In Japan, however, it took on a distinct form, adapted to the traditions and the cultures of this eastern nation. There, it became closely connected with the rapid rise of the Samurai social class, and thus shaped the evolution of that country, from roughly 1185 AD until 1868 AD and the Meiji Restoration. But unlike the feudal system in Europe, which was based on land and vassalage, the Japanese version was more oriented towards loyalty, honor, prowess, and military power. And who exuded these traits better than the famed Samurai?
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