The blockbuster movie The Last Samurai, starring Tom Cruise as a disillusioned American soldier who joins a group of rebel samurai in 19th century Japan, was loosely based on a true story. But the real hero of the story was not an American, but a Frenchman: Jules Brunet.
Jules Brunet was a French officer who trained and fought with the Tokugawa samurai against the Meiji Emperor in the Boshin War, a civil war that marked the end of feudal Japan and the beginning of modernization. He was the main inspiration for Tom Cruise’s character in The Last Samurai, although his life and deeds were much more remarkable than what was shown on screen.
Brunet was sent to Japan as an artillery instructor with the French military mission of 1867, a group of advisors who helped modernize the Shogun’s army. He quickly developed a fascination and admiration for Japanese culture and history, especially for the samurai code of honor. He also became friends with some of the most influential leaders of the Tokugawa shogunate, such as Saigō Takamori and Enomoto Takeaki.
When the Meiji Emperor, backed by powerful clans who wanted to westernize Japan and abolish the samurai class, declared war on the Shogun, Brunet faced a dilemma. He had orders to return to France with his mission, but he felt loyal to his Japanese allies and comrades. He decided to stay and fight for the Tokugawa cause, even though it meant defying his own government and risking his life.
He refused to leave the country after the shōgun was defeated, and played a leading role in the separatist Republic of Ezo, a short-lived state that was established by Tokugawa loyalists in northern Japan. He organized and commanded a mixed force of French volunteers and Japanese samurai, who fought bravely against overwhelming odds. He also tried to obtain international recognition and support for the Republic of Ezo, but failed.
After a year of fierce resistance, the Republic of Ezo surrendered to the Meiji forces in June 1869. Brunet and his men were allowed to leave Japan with their honor intact. He returned to France, where he faced a court-martial for his disobedience, but was eventually pardoned. He then resumed his military career, fought in the Franco-Prussian War, and later reached the rank of general of division and worked for the Ministry of War.
Jules Brunet was indeed the real last samurai, who fought for Japan with passion and honor. His story deserves to be remembered as one of the most fascinating episodes in history.
Relevant articles:
– Jules Brunet And The True Story Behind ‘The Last Samurai’, All That’s Interesting, March 14, 2023
– Jules Brunet Wiki, Everipedia, March 12, 2023
– Jules Brunet – Alchetron, The Free Social Encyclopedia, Alchetron, March 10, 2023