Saigō Takamori

Died by seppuku after being critically wounded in the final battle of the Satsuma Rebellion at Shiroyama, leading the disaffected samurai against the Meiji government.

Became the reluctant leader of disaffected samurai in the Satsuma Rebellion against the central Meiji government, fueled by policy disagreements and his return to Kagoshima.

Resigned from the Meiji government due to policy disagreements, most notably the rejection of his proposal for a mission to Korea (Seikanron).

Played a crucial role in the Meiji Restoration, commanding imperial forces and negotiating the bloodless surrender of Edo Castle, leading to the overthrow of the Tokugawa shogunate.

Instrumental in forging the Satchō Alliance between Satsuma and Chōshū Domain, a critical step in the shogunate's downfall during the Boshin War.

Exiled to the harsher island of Okinoerabujima, where he further developed his political and philosophical ideas during his period of banishment.

First exiled to Amami Ōshima, a period that significantly influenced his thinking and development as a political figure.

Rose to prominence as a retainer to Shimazu Nariakira, the daimyō of Satsuma, becoming involved in national politics.

Born Saigō Takamori into a low-ranking samurai family in Satsuma Domain, Japan.