Hijikata Toshizo

Hijikata Toshizo joined the newly formed Shinsengumi in Kyoto. He quickly became the vice-commander, known for his strict discipline and ruthless enforcement of the group's code. He helped establish the Shinsengumi as a feared police force.

Hijikata led Shinsengumi forces in a raid on the Ikedaya Inn in Kyoto, where anti-shogunate plotters were meeting. The raid resulted in the deaths or capture of many plotters, thwarting a plan to burn Kyoto. This event cemented the Shinsengumi's reputation.

Hijikata fought in the Battle of Toba-Fushimi as part of the shogunate forces. The Shinsengumi suffered heavy losses and were forced to retreat. This defeat marked the beginning of the end for the Tokugawa shogunate.

Hijikata fought in the Battle of Hakodate, the final battle of the Boshin War, as part of the Republic of Ezo forces. He was killed in action by a bullet while leading a charge. His death marked the end of the Shinsengumi and the last resistance to the Meiji Restoration.