Kiyoshi Sawaya

Official Recordkeepr of the Shogun Kiyoshi Sawaya

Kiyoshi Sawaya (1562-1654) was the official record keeper and secretary of Takeshi Mutō from 1584-1648. He spent his entire career following Takeshi around, and observing his reforms, laws, military action, and personal life.

Early Life

Kiyoshi Sawaya was born in Kyoto, Japan on July 29, 1562. He would be put through education as a monk, and he decided that by the age of 22 he served as an imperial scribe. He was noted for being skilled in his line of work, mostly the scathing accuracy of what he wrote down, and his inclusion of body moments an mannerisms, in 1584 he would be chosen by Takeshi Mutō to become the official record keeper and secretary of the new Mutō Shogunate.

Career in the Mutō Shogunate

When hired by Takeshi he was expected to come with him on military campaigns and write down what happened each engagement. He was also expected to record much of what Takeshi said, record general events, and most importantly keep an accurate record. He would do this for years, and he came to know and respect Takeshi, in 1646, July 7th, He would interview Takeshi on a number of different topics, while not the first time this would be the most well known. Takeshi would finally die in 1648, and Kiyoshi would go onto publish his memoirs, he would spend the remainder of his days writing philosophy before finally passing away at the age of 92 in 1654.

Historical Importance

Kiyoshi Sawaya would give a wealth of knowledge about Takeshi Muto, this was extremely important for historians as much of Takeshi's story after his death would be glorified and propagandized. Kiyoshi's memoir of working under him would also prove valuable, and the July 7th interview is still to this day one of the most quoted pieces of literature in modern day politics.

Age

92

Date of Birth

29, July

Life

1562 1654

Birthplace

Kyoto, Japan

Pronouns

He, Him, HIs

Gender

Male