Umako no Soga

Background

Umako no Soga was a son of Soga no Iname, who had engaged in a struggle for power with Mononobe no Okoshi. The same struggle was carried on by Umako.

Career

In 587, when Emperor Yomei died, a quarrel over the succession broke out between the prince backed by Mononobe no Okoshi’s son Moriya and that backed by Umako, but Umako attacked and killed Moriya and proceeded to set up the prince he supported, who became Emperor Sushun.

He was later told that Emperor Sushun hated him, however, he assassinated the emperor and in his place set up his own niece, the consort of the deceased Emperor Bidatsu, who became Empress Suiko, appointing Prince Shotoku as heir apparent to handle affairs of government.

Religion

He was a follower of Buddhism, and founded the first temple in Japan, known as Asuka-dera. He also joined with Prince Shotoku in compiling works on the history of Japan.

Connections

Father:

Soga no Iname

niece:

Empress Suiko