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Although the Samurai were the ideal soldier with the invention of the gun the sword, bow, staff, spear etc. etc. were becoming obsolete and with them the Samurai also. As Japan's military turned towards heavier weapons such as rifles, canons, and machine guns the Samurai's fighting tactics were no longer required. With the new military system came new rules and regulations. The rule which was a major deciding factor for the future of the Samurai was a rule which stated, only officers will could were a sword. In the point of view or the Samurai, it would be a great dishonor to use a gun and to give up their katana, which if you remember is believed to be a part of a Samurai's soul. Seeing how the emperor no longer seemed to need the way of the Samurai, they turned to new life styles. Or in Saigo Takamori's case led a rebellion against the new system which had banned the way of the Samurai. Takamori was a true Samurai he led his men up against the Meiji administration head on and died. He died an honorable death on the battle field defending what he thought was right. Honor, A word that has lost all meaning in this country, was practiced and perfected by the Samurai; although the Samurai have left this world their influence is everlasting. They set an example for all and inspired others to live a life worth-while, and honorable.
The Black Rose