Matsudaira Katamori

Matsudaira Katamori was appointed Kyoto Shugoshoku (military commissioner of Kyoto) by the Tokugawa shogunate. He was tasked with maintaining order in Kyoto, which was a hotbed of anti-shogunate activity. This position made him a key figure in the Bakumatsu period.

Katamori authorized the formation of the Shinsengumi, a special police force composed of ronin, to suppress anti-shogunate elements in Kyoto. The Shinsengumi became infamous for their ruthless tactics and loyalty to the shogunate, with Kondo Isami and Hijikata Toshizo as leaders.

Katamori led Aizu forces in the Battle of Toba-Fushimi, the opening battle of the Boshin War. The shogunate forces were defeated by the Imperial army, leading to the collapse of Tokugawa resistance. Katamori retreated to Aizu after the defeat.

Imperial forces besieged Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle for a month. Katamori's forces, including the Byakkotai (White Tiger Corps), defended fiercely but were overwhelmed. The castle fell, and Katamori surrendered, ending Aizu's resistance. Many young samurai committed seppuku.

After the fall of Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle, Katamori formally surrendered to the Imperial forces. He was placed under house arrest and his domain was confiscated. He later lived in obscurity, but was eventually pardoned and served as a shrine priest.