Fujiwara no Nakamaro (藤原 仲麻呂, 706 – October 21, 764), also known as Emi no Oshikatsu (恵美 押勝),[1] was a Japanese aristocrat (kuge), courtier, and statesman.[2] He was chancellor (Daijō-daijin) of the Imperial government during the Nara period.[3]
Nakamaro was the second son of Fujiwara no Muchimaro,[1] who was the founder of southern branch of the Fujiwara clan.[4]
Nakamaro was named to progressively important court positions during the reign of Empress Kōken.
Opposition led by Tachibana no Naramaro and others was put down in 757.[6]
In 758, Nakamaro was given the title and role of "Grand Guardian" (taihō); and his name was changed to Emi No Oshikatsu.[1] The power to mint copper coins was granted to Oshikatsu in 758.[7]
Nakamaro became Prime Minister (taishi) during the reign of Emperor Junnin.[8] He acted to secure the northern border with the Ainu, but his plans did not succeed.[3]
Plans for a military campaign in Korea were started, but it was abandoned.[9]
His plans were opposed by some of his cousins in the Fujiwara clan.[2]
Further information: Fujiwara no Nakamaro Rebellion |
In 764, Nakamaro was a trusted supporter of the emperor Junnin; and he was at odds with former-Empress Kōken and her close associate, the monk Dōkyō. In the struggle between the factions headed by Junnin and Kōken, Nakamaro was captured and killed.[10] His wife and children were also killed.[11] Soon after, Junnin was deposed; and Kōken reclaimed the monarch's role for another five years.[10]
Fujiwara family tree | |
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