3. Many Became Statesmen and Military Officers
After the abolition of the samurai class, many former samurai transitioned into influential roles within the Japanese government and military, significantly shaping the nation’s modernization during the Meiji era. For instance, Okubo Toshimichi, a prominent statesman, played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration and subsequent reforms. Similarly, Saigo Tsugumichi served as a military officer and statesman, contributing to the development of Japan’s military system. These transitions are detailed in the National Diet Library’s collection on modern Japanese historical figures. (ndl.go.jp)
