A debate sparks over the lack of people of color in Shogun, with critics arguing the show overlooks their historical presence in 17th-century Japan.

The historic TV series Shogun, set in 17th century Japan, has captivated audiences with its gripping portrayal of feudal Japan, offering a fascinating look into the cultural and political shifts of the time.

However, a recent question raised by a major news outlet has sparked debate over the film’s representation of race, specifically regarding the presence of people of color.

The article delves into a provocative point: “Where are the people of color in Shogun?” This inquiry challenges the traditional historical depictions of Japan and highlights a compelling argument about the potential presence of non-Japanese individuals in the country during the time the show is set.

The central claim made by the publication is that there were, in fact, people of color in Japan, particularly in Osaka, which during the period was a vital economic and cultural hub.

Osaka played a significant role in the global trade routes, particularly with European countries, and was home to various foreign merchants, including those from Africa and the Americas.

As trade flourished, so did the diversity of people living in Japan, often resulting in interactions between Japanese people and Europeans, Africans, and others.

The article posits that while people of color may not have been freely roaming in the streets of cities like Osaka, they were certainly a part of the group of European emissaries, sailors, and traders visiting the country during the period.

Historically, Japan’s interactions with the outside world during the Edo period, which lasted from the early 1600s to the mid-1800s, were limited.

After the Portuguese arrived in Japan in the 16th century, many foreign nationals, including Dutch and Portuguese sailors, merchants, and priests, began arriving on Japanese shores.

These foreigners were not only present in Japan but were often involved in the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture.

It is well-documented that some of these foreigners brought enslaved individuals or servants, including those of African descent, to Japan.

This historical fact challenges the traditional portrayal of Japan as a racially homogenous society, and it is this nuance that the publication argues Shogun fails to address.

The Shogun series has generally been praised for its fidelity to historical events and its careful attention to cultural detail. However, the lack of visible representation of people of color has not gone unnoticed by critics.

The publication contends that the absence of non-Japanese individuals in the early episodes of the show is a significant oversight, especially considering the historical context of trade and diplomatic relations between Japan and European nations.

While it is true that the presence of people of color in Japan at the time may have been limited in scope compared to other parts of the world, their existence and roles in the country’s international relationships should not be disregarded.

The article emphasizes that the inclusion of characters of color in Shogun does not require historical inaccuracy.

Rather, it could enhance the authenticity of the narrative, particularly when the story progresses to focus on naval scenes and the growing influence of Western nations in Japan.

The suggestion that Shogun should include “colored sailors” in its upcoming seasons, specifically in the second and third seasons, aligns with the historical reality of the time.

It is believed that as Japan expanded its trade relationships, more sailors from Africa and the Caribbean could have found their way into the ranks of the foreign crew that would have sailed on Japanese ships, further promoting the multicultural aspect of the time.

Additionally, the argument is made that Shogun could have integrated these figures into the story not just as background characters but as active participants in the narrative.

While there may have been few people of color in Japan during the Edo period, those who were present often played important roles in trade and diplomacy.

One of the key points in the argument is that while people of color may not have been openly visible in the streets or residential areas of Japan, they were often integral to the success of European ventures in the country.

In this way, Shogun could serve as a more inclusive representation of Japan’s complex interactions with the world.

The question of historical representation in film and television is an ongoing discussion, particularly in regards to underrepresented groups.

Many have argued that the entertainment industry often overlooks the contributions and existence of people of color in historical narratives, especially in periods where their presence may have been less common but still historically significant.

By raising this issue, the publication not only challenges the creators of Shogun but also invites audiences to rethink how historical narratives are constructed and whether diversity should be more prominently reflected in popular portrayals of the past.

The presence of people of color in historical films has been a subject of increasing scrutiny, as more viewers demand that movies and television shows reflect a more accurate and inclusive representation of history.

As historical dramas continue to gain popularity, creators are urged to consider how to handle these sensitive topics with accuracy and respect, providing viewers with a richer, more nuanced understanding of the past.

The debate surrounding Shogun and its portrayal of race highlights the importance of examining history through multiple perspectives and voices.

It is not just about what is depicted on screen but also about ensuring that the complex and diverse stories of the past are shared with audiences.

With production already underway for the next seasons of Shogun, it remains to be seen whether the show will take the opportunity to introduce more diverse characters, including sailors, traders, and diplomats of color.

For now, the conversation continues, and fans of the show and history buffs alike are eager to see how the series evolves in terms of representation and historical accuracy.

As the world becomes increasingly conscious of the need for diversity in all forms of media, Shogun stands at the crossroads of historical fiction and modern-day social expectations, providing a platform for dialogue about how history is told and who gets to be included in the narrative.