Honor, loyalty, and self-sacrifice defined the life of the samurai, fierce warriors who controlled Japan for more than seven centuries. This book explores the history of these dedicated fighters from their roots as soldiers of the imperial court to their eventual rise to power greater than that of the emperor. Illustrated with B&W era drawings and art. CAROL GASKIN is a writer, editor, and website producer who has written fifteen books and numerous articles on history and fiction. She lives in Sarasota, Florida. VINCE HAWKINS is a professional military historian with over 17 years' experience...