* Image is for illustrative purposes only.Fujiwara no Kamatari
藤原鎌足（中臣鎌足）
Founder of the Fujiwara Clan — The Statesman Who Slew Soga no Iruka and Ushered in the Taika Reform
Description
Life
Fujiwara no Kamatari was born in 614 into the Nakatomi clan, which presided over Shinto rites and ceremonies. He was originally known as Nakatomi no Kamako. From a young age he was noted for his love of learning, and he is said to have been well versed in Chinese political institutions.
The Isshi Incident
In 645, Kamatari, who aimed to overthrow Soga no Iruka, who then monopolized political power, drew close to Prince Naka no Ōe (later Emperor Tenji). According to tradition, the two became close after Kamatari picked up the prince's shoe, which had come off during a game of kemari. Together with allies including Soga no Kurayamada no Ishikawa no Maro, they refined their plan, and in 645, at the Itabuki Palace in Asuka, Naka no Ōe and his party, armed with swords, killed Iruka at court. Iruka's father, Soga no Emishi, set fire to his own residence and took his own life the following day, and the main line of the Soga clan was destroyed.
Contribution to the Taika Reform
Following this political upheaval (the Isshi Incident), Kamatari was appointed to the newly established post of Naishin (Inner Minister). Thereafter, he supported Naka no Ōe and advanced reforms such as the public land and public people system (the Taika Reform). After the Battle of Baekgang in 663, he also played a central role in diplomacy, including dealings with Tang China and Silla.
Death and the Grant of the Fujiwara Name
In 669, while hawking near Yamashina, Kamatari was thrown from his horse and injured, and he took to his sickbed. Emperor Tenji visited him in person, and on the day before his death, it is said that the Emperor sent his younger brother, Prince Ōama, to bestow upon him the highest court rank, Taishokkan, and the surname Fujiwara. He died the following day at the age of 56.
Later Reputation
Fujiwara no Kamatari is regarded as the founding ancestor of the Fujiwara clan, which went on to shape Japanese politics for more than a thousand years. He is also considered one of the most important figures in Japanese history, as a principal driving force behind the Isshi Incident and the Taika Reform.