What is Ashigaru?
[[File:The Ieyasu Parade by sachakun 3.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Men dressed like ashigaru soldiers in a local parade.]] '''Ashigaru''' is a type of [[Japan]]ese [[soldier]] that began during the Heian Period (794-1185). Their origin is serving as bodyguards to government officials during this period. They became more active over hundreds of years and ended up serving as foot-soldiers for [[samurai]] and [[shogun]]. Ashigaru became masterless warriors after the beginning of the [[Edo period|Edo Period]] (1603-1868). After the Edo Period, many became police. == Fighting style and armor == Ashigaru are noted for using surprise attacks and group tactics. They wore metal armor, a gauntlet, and a Japanese half-length coat. The armor also had leather and Japanese rice paper. Their weapon was a [[sword]], spear, gun, or bow. Ashigaru also carried a water bottle, tissue paper, and rice. == The Ōnin Rebellion == In the [[Ōnin War]] (1467-1477), the ashigaru robbed and looted [[Kyoto]]. This gave ashigaru a reputation as bad troops. {{Japan-stub}} [[Category:History of Japan]] [[Category:Samurai]]