Chūshingura by Utagawa Kuniyoshi.In a notorious historical act of vengeance, on January 30, 1703,
Chūshingura by Utagawa Kuniyoshi. In a notorious historical act of vengeance, on January 30, 1703, a group of 47 rōnin (leaderless samurai) raided the residence of Kira Yoshinaka in Edo, killing him and 28 of his retainers. The act caused a sensation in the city. Almost two years, earlier, in the spring of 1701, Asano Naganori, the leader of the Akō domain, had drawn his sword while in Edo Castle, a forbidden act, and cut Kira. Kira was in charge of teaching protocol at the castle, and he lied to and abused Asano, who, obliged to defend his honor, drew his weapon when he could stand it no longer. He was subsequently ordered to kill himself by seppuku. The story of Asano and his loyal samurai inspired puppet theater works and kabuki dramas, and is still enjoyed today. Samurai Vengeance: The Undying Popularity of the 47 “Rōnin” -- source link