Brave, invincible warriors, fighting sword in hand against overwhelming odds. Those were the Samurai. In this comprehensive, enthralling, illustration-filled look at their history, personalities, strategies, costume, and campaign you'll find every detail of their armor and weaponry, as well as information on the Samurai army's development, its organization, and the fighters' feudal obligation. Follow the evolution of the sword and polearms, plus, the technology and deployment of explosives. Take a peek into castle life and the rituals of battle. Case studies, often based on contemporary chronicles, diaries and official records, focus in on the most important invasions and combat situations from 940 to 1638, and religious traditions. A full range of maps chart wartime changes. 320 pages, 175 b/w illus., 7 3/4 x 10.