Taira clan

The Taira clan was a powerful Japanese family during the late-Heian period (roughly 12th century). They played a major role in political and military conflicts, notably clashing with the Minamoto clan in the Genpei War (1180–1185). The Taira, also known as Heike, were prominent in court life and military affairs but were eventually defeated, leading to the rise of the Minamoto and the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate. Their story is a significant chapter in Japan’s history, reflecting the shifting power from aristocratic families to military rulers.