Kagekiyo no Taira

Background

Kagekiyo Taira was born in 1103. He was the son of Tadakiyo Fujiwara. His original name was Fujiwara no Kagekiyo (藤原 景清), but he was adopted by the Taira and served them loyally the rest of his life.

Career

He served the Tairas. He was nicknamed Aku (Evil) Shichibyoe because he killed his uncle.

Under Koremori Taira he fought Yoshinaka Kiso (Mi

namoto) and, under Tomomori Taira, defeated Yukiie Minamoto. In the Battle of Yashima (1185), he grappled with Juro Mioya, a noted warrior of the Minamoto camp, and plucked a neck-plate of his opponent. In the Battle of Dannoura (1186), he surrendered and was placed in the custody of Tomoie Hatta. While in custody, he is said to have famished himself to death.

Personality

Kagekiyo Taira was a giant of great physical strength.

References

• Japan Encyclopedia Harvard University Press Reference Library
  2002