African Samurai

The True Story of Yasuke, a Legendary Black Warrior in Feudal Japan

By: Thomas Lockley, Geoffrey Girard

Narrated by: Gary Furlong

Warrior.

Samurai.

Legend.

The remarkable life of history’s first foreign-born samurai, and his astonishing journey from Northeast Africa to the heights of Japanese society.

When Yasuke arrived in Japan in the late 1500s, he had already traveled much of the known world. Kidnapped as a child, he had ended up a servant and bodyguard to the head of the Jesuits in Asia, with whom he traversed India and China learning multiple languages as he went. His arrival in Kyoto, however, literally caused a riot. Most Japanese people had never seen an African man before, and many of them saw him as the embodiment of the black-skinned (in local tradition) Buddha. Among those who were drawn to his presence was Lord Nobunaga, head of the most powerful clan in Japan, who made Yasuke a samurai in his court. Soon, he was learning the traditions of Japan’s martial arts and ascending the upper echelons of Japanese society.

In the four hundred years since, Yasuke has been known in Japan largely as a legendary, perhaps mythical figure. Now African Samurai presents the never-before-told biography of this unique figure of the sixteenth century, one whose travels between countries, cultures and classes offers a new perspective on race in world history and a vivid portrait of life in medieval Japan.

excellent performance

I wish there was more factual information about Yasuke. but the writer did a fantastic job filling in.

Great story!

Great story told through nonfictional history! I would highly recommend this audiobook! Great narration as well

Truly great read!!

I’ve been wanting to read this book for sometime. Audible aloud, format for me to do so it was so conveniently. I’ve always been interested in the story of the black samurai, long before the animated show. This reading did not disappoint at all. It was surprising to hear Lansdale Pennsylvania mention. This will have me seeking out more information on this subject..

Very well read.

Great job on the inflection and tone. Great performance.
Beautiful story and great outline. Love it

liked

good book.
I recommend.
Japan awesome.
Japan scary.
scary in good way.
must read.