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The Daimyo were the most powerful feudal rulers from the 12th century to
the 19th century in the History of Japan. Similar to the "feudal" system in
Europe, they held dynastic control over semi-autonomous territories, and
lesser territorial lords were pledged to support greater ones. A
warrior-caste of samurai soldiers likewise gave their personal loyalty to
the support of lords from these families.
At the beginning of Edo period, their clans and territories were
reorganized as han.
The term Daimyo (大名) is also sometimes used to refer to the leading
figures of such clans, also called "warlords". It was usually, thought not
exclusively, from these warlords that a shogun or regent was chosen.
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