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Fujiwara no Nakamaro

Type Figure Region Japan Time 706–764 Also known as Emi no Oshikatsu

Fujiwara no Nakamaro (706–764) was a powerful Nara-period Fujiwara minister who rose to Grand Preceptor under Emperors Shōmu and Kōken, but failed in…

Timeline

  1. 706–749Heijō-kyō · NaraGrandson of Fujiwara no Fusasaki, he frequented the court from youth. Under Emperors Shōmu and Kōken he held posts such as sangi and chūnagon, was trusted for his ability, gradually grasped real power in government, and became one of the most powerful in-law ministers of the late Nara period.
  2. 749–764Heijō-kyō · NaraWhen Empress Kōken was re enthroned as Empress Shōtoku, Nakamaro rose to Grand Preceptor, monopolized government, and changed his name to Emi no Oshikatsu. As conflict with the favored monk Dōkyō and the emperor intensified, he launched a coup in 764 seeking to control the court, known historically as the Emi no Oshikatsu Rebellion.
  3. 764Ōmi Province · ShigaAfter rising in arms he was campaigned against by the court, defeated, fled to Ōmi, and was soon captured and executed. After the rebellion the court purged his followers; Fujiwara power was set back, the late Nara political order was restructured, laying groundwork for the reforms of Emperors Kōnin and Kanmu.

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