Kashira (Ryukyu)

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  • Japanese: 頭 (kashira)

Kashira were local administrators in the Miyako and Yaeyama Islands, appointed or recognized by the Ryûkyû Kingdom. Most were local elites who were simply recognized by the kingdom, rather than selected and assigned to a given island or area.

The practice of appointing, or recognizing, kashira began around the year 1500, in conjunction with the kingdom first extending authority over the Miyako and Yaeyama Islands.

References

  • Smits, "Examining the Myth of Ryukyuan Pacifism"; Smits, "Rethinking Ryukyu," International Journal of Okinawan Studies 6:1 (2015), 7.
  • Gallery labels, Shuri castle.[1]