Discuss the reasons for, and the results of, the struggles between samurai clans during the period between 1180 and 1333.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for, and results of, the struggles between the samurai clans. When discussing the reasons for the struggles candidates may consider the rivalry between the clans and the struggles within the court to control the office of the Shogunate. Economic reasons may be considered, in particular, the issue of land. Land was the principal source of wealth and clans sought to control large areas of land to support their armies. The culture of the Samurai placed great emphasis on personal honour and this caused conflict as individuals or groups who felt that their honour had been compromised resorted to violence. The results of the struggles may include a discussion of the shift from a civilian to a military government, the emphasis on the samurai in culture and the emergence of the warrior class with its strict code of conduct that was imposed on the population.