There are on record instances in which the true heirship was declared only after bitter intrigue, quarrels, or even bloodshed. In the tenth century, Taira no Masakado disappointed in not being appointed Dai Jo Dai Jin, left Kioto, went to Shimosa in the Kuanto, and set himself up as Shinno, or cadet of the imperial line, and temporarily ruled the eight provinces of the East as a pseudo-mikado.
In 1139, the military families of Taira and Minamoto came to blows in Kioto over the question of succession between the rival heirs, Shutoku and Go-Shirakawa. The Taira being victors, their candidate became Mikado. During the decay of the Taira, they fled from Kioto, carrying with them, as true emperor, with his suite and sacred insignia, Antoku, the child, five years old, who was drowned in the sea when the Taira were destroyed. The Minamoto at the same time recognized Gotoba.
It may be more analogical to call the wars of the Gen and Hei, with their white and red flags, the Japanese Wars of the Roses. Theirs was the struggle of rival houses. Now, we are to speak of rival dynasties, each with the imperial chrysanthemum.
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From General Nelson A. Miles
Thrilling Stories of The Russian-Japanese War, 1904
