INFO:

Amakusa Shirō Tokisada was the charismatic young leader of the Shimabara Rebellion (1637–1638), a major uprising in Japan led by Christian peasants and impoverished samurai. At just 16 years old, Shirō became a symbol of hope and resistance for persecuted Christians under the Tokugawa shogunate. The rebellion broke out in the Shimabara and Amakusa regions due to extreme taxation and brutal suppression of Christianity. Shirō, known for his deep faith and powerful presence, was believed by many to be chosen by God. Thousands rallied behind him, seeing him as a savior who would free them from suffering. The rebels fortified themselves in Hara Castle, where they held out for months against the much larger shogunate army. Despite their determination, the siege ended in tragedy: the castle fell, and around 37,000 people — including women and children — were killed. Shirō was captured and executed, and his head was displayed publicly to crush any future resistance. The failure of the rebellion led to a total ban on Christianity in Japan and the beginning of over 200 years of national isolation (sakoku). Long live the Catholic Church🇻🇦🇻🇦.