Ōmura Sumitada

Ōmura Sumitada (1534–1587) was a Japanese feudal lord who played a key role in early Christianity in Japan. Originally a Catholic convert, he supported the arrival of Jesuit missionaries and allowed the religion to spread in his domain, including building churches and promoting Christian practices. His openness helped establish Nagasaki as a center of Christian activity. However, Japan's rulers later suppressed Christianity, leading to persecution. Sumitada is remembered for his efforts in fostering Christian faith in Japan during a period of cultural and religious change, demonstrating the complex interactions between Japanese society and European influences in the 16th century.