Samurai (侍) were the aristocratic and military warriors of Japan during the feudal period (roughly from the 12th century to the late 19th century). Key characteristics of the samurai: • Bushido (the way of the warrior): A strict moral code that emphasized absolute loyalty, courage, honor, honesty, self-control, and a willingness to die. • Double swords: the katana (long sword) and wakizashi (short sword), which symbolized their spirit and social status. • Serfdom: Samurai swore allegiance to a lord (daimyō) and received land and pay in return. • Comprehensive education: In addition to martial arts (kenjutsu, kyudo, horsemanship), many were also trained in poetry, calligraphy, the tea ceremony, and Zen philosophy. In 1876 (Meiji period), the Japanese central government officially abolished the samurai class, stripped them of the right to bear swords, and ended the feudal system. Today, the samurai is more widely recognized in popular culture, films (such as the works of Akira Kurosawa), anime, games, and literature as a symbol of courage, discipline, and the death-oriented Japanese aesthetic. Short and simple: Samurai = loyal warrior + katana sword + bushido + honor unto death