Takeda Shingen

Takeda Shingen (1521-1573) has been described as the epitome of the Warring States period daimyo in that he was tremendously successful in accomplishing limited, regional goals (expansion of his domains) by means of a series of temporary alliances which were quickly broken or reformed according to the need of the moment. Regional success was perhaps all Shingen ever had in mind; he never exhibited the long-ranged vision or strategic wisdom necessary in the confused events of the time. Shingen and the fall of the Takeda house are featured in Kurosawa's movie 'Kagemusha' (The Shadow Warrior).