This book tells about the dramatic fate of the legendary Saigo Takamori, the “last samurai,” a great warrior, intellectual, politician, diplomat and poet, who determined the further development of Japanese civilization. His star flashed on the public horizon of Japan at a turning point for the country - in the second half of the 19th century, when, during a bloody civil war, the ancient samurai state rapidly collapsed and the power of the shogunate was replaced by a Western-style monarchy.

Ethical principles of the code Saigo Takamori always put bushido and high moral spirit above political gains and victories at any cost. The samurai armed with swords under his command fearlessly attacked the imperial troops, equipped with the latest rifles - and victory did not always go to firearms... It is no coincidence that this amazing man not only became a legend among ordinary Japanese, but was also officially canonized after his death by the new imperial government, with whom he fought mercilessly.

Already in our days, Saigo Takamori has become the prototype of one of the main characters of the famous Hollywood blockbuster “The Last Samurai.”

Now you have the opportunity to find out the true story of the life of the great rebel.