Summary

In Chapter 4, Yoritomo had trouble gathering troops and allies. Despite his role as leader of the Minamoto, many Minamoto family members and allies had become friendly with the Taira, and did not have any desire to fight them. Still, Yoritomo sent out messages, urging support. The samurai, who acted as tax collectors and land managers in peacetime, were always worried about their job security. Yoritomo promised them job permanence in exchange for service. In other words, they would have lifetime employment, and their sons could take on their jobs. The same promise was also made to civilian and religious leaders who stood to support Yoritomo. With a small force commanded by his father-in-law, Yoritomo ordered an attack on a Taira administrator, cutting off his head.

Taira Kiyomori, in response, organized an army of thousands to crush Yoritomo and his rebels. With the help of...