In the 16th–17th centuries, Japan banned Christianity after first welcoming missionaries from Portugal. Shoguns viewed the growing faith as a threat to political control and social unity, issuing the 1614 ban that destroyed churches, persecuted converts, and expelled missionaries. On September 10, 1622, Japanese officials burned alive or beheaded 55 Christian missionaries. The violence coincided with Japan’s push to expel all foreign influences
by OverallBaker3572
4 Comments
The isolationist Sakoku policy, which began with a series of edicts from 1633 to 1639 and lasted until 1853. This policy severely limited trade and restricted entry for most foreigners, while Japanese citizens were prohibited from leaving the country.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/why-japans-shogun-executed-dozens-christians-great-genna-martyrdom-1622-180985023/
Moments like this are a harsh reminder of how power, faith, and fear can shape history.
The movie *Silence* by Martin Scorsese is a good depiction of this time.