Saigo Takamori; original name Kichibe or Kichinosuke; literary name Nanshu; was one of the most influential samurai in Japanese history. He lived during the late Edo Period and early Meiji Era; and became a leader of the Meiji restoration.

In 1867; Saigo's troops supported the Emperor in the Meiji Restoration; with Katsu Kaishu; who was the representative of the Shogunate government; he achieved the bloodless surrender of Edo Castle and successfully conducted the coup d'etat of 'Osei Fukko' (Restoration of Imperial rule). He was later put in command of over 50;000 samurai; a large segment of the Imperial army.

As a 'Sangi' (councillor) in the new government; he helped to push through reforms. His participation in the restoration made him a legendary hero; but the same reforms dissolved the samurai system and caused him to lose his status. In 1873; he resigned his government post after losing in the 'Seikanron' (Debate over conquering Korea).

In 1877; with the encouragement of the students of his private school in Kyushu; Saigo organized the Satsuma Rebellion against the government he had helped to restore. He was defeated by the government army and committed suicide. He later became a symbol of devotion to principle. Pictures From History