Nagakura Shinpachi
Edo
Nagakura Shinpachi was born as son of Matsumae han samurai in Edo. He practiced Shinto Munen Ryu(Menkyo) at Gekikenkan dojo and Shingyoto Ryu at Tsubouchi Shume dojo.(He met Shimada Kai in the dojo) He left from Matsumae han to concentrate practicing Kenjutsu. He became Shokkaku of Shieikan dojo and joined Roshigumi along with other Shieikan members.
Shinsengumi
Nagakura Shinpachi was one of 4 members who raided inside of Ikedaya. After the Kinmon rebellion, Kondo Isami's arrogant behaviours irretated some Shinsengumi members. Nagakura and Harada Sanosuke and Saito Hajime and other 3 members submitted a petition of the impeachment of Kondo to Matsudaira Katamori but failed. When they returned to Edo after the Battle of Koshu-Katsunuma, Nagakura and Kondo argued over plans. Kondo said "If you become my retainer" then Nagakura and Sano made decision to leave Shinsengumi. They formed Seiheitai, participated some battles in Utsunomiya, Imaichi and headed to north but it was too late.
References
- Shinsengumi Taishi Den (新選組隊士伝) Gakken
- Shinsengumi (新選組) Sekai Bunkasha
- Shinsengumi Zentaishi Tettei Guide (新選組全隊士徹底ガイド) Maeda Masaki