Azai Hisamasa

Azai Hisamasa (1526-1573) was the second head of the Azai clan, which controlled northern Omi Province (present-day northern Shiga Prefecture), and the father of Azai Nagamasa. His policy of submission to Rokkaku Sadayori and Yoshikata drew criticism from within his own clan, leading him to cede the headship to his son Nagamasa. He thereafter served as a guardian supporting Nagamasa's rule, but in 1573, when Oda Nobunaga attacked Odani Castle, he died alongside Nagamasa. Though his end was tragic, it is said that the financial foundations of the Azai clan were consolidated during Hisamasa's era, making possible Nagamasa's subsequent achievements. He favored sturdy blades forged by northern Omi smiths and is remembered in sword history as a warrior more versed in governance than in martial prowess.