Yasuke (African Samurai)

The Life and Legend of Japan’s First African Samurai

By: Jeff Taylor

Narrated by: Judah Paul Andrews

Brought to Japan in the 16th century by Portuguese traders, he was the first person of African origin who became an instant celebrity. Rumored to be about seven feet tall and possessing the strength of 10 men, he garnered the attention of the famed warlord Oda Nobunaga. He served his master diligently through many battle victories. He is most famously associated with the title of African Samurai. This is the story of Yasuke.

Not much is known about Yasuke. From the historical accounts that are available, we know that, despite his intimidating demeanor, he was a gentle person. This was the first impression Nobunaga had of him when he first saw him surrounded by a large curious crowd in Kyoto. Being taken to immediately, he frequently accompanied the warlord and even dined with him personally, which was a rare occurrence at the time.

Come and meet the legendary non-Japanese figure in Japanese history. This wonderful book will help you acquire unique insights into Yasuke's life and times.

©2020 Aspen Creek Publishing (P)2020 Aspen Creek Publishing

Informative

It was informative about Samurai code and life style but the lack of information about the main character made the content repetitive. I hunger for more info on Yasuke, I couldn't connect to him, which is unfortunately the story of Africans in history throughout the world. we are just back drop, Important enough to be seen but not actually identified as a individual piece of our surroundings.

Wonderful Story

A piece of Black/African history that is missing. This is a wonderful story. Great read.

Good story

It was very informative however it got to be very repetitive in various areas of the book.

Good Read!

I've always been Interested in the Sengoku Period. Interesting read this was. I strongly recommend

Snippet-turned-book

Overall this read/listened like an encyclopedia snippet fluffed and stretched beyond what the sources could really support. A valiant effort has been made to do such and this book provides a decent introduction to 16th century Japan; however, at times Yasuke is very much a secondary figure to a broad overview of social and political backstory.