or "leagues" - as a means of self-defense. They became known for their military activities in the nearby regions and sold their services as mercenaries and spies. Following the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate in the 17th century, the ninja faded into obscurity.

Etymology

Ninja is the on'yomi (Early Middle Chinese-influenced) reading of the two kanji "??". In the native

1.Previous
3.Next