Genkō (1321–1324)

The Genkō era (元弘) was a Japanese era name (年号, nengō, literally "year name") that spanned the years from the 14th day of the 4th month of 1321 to the 28th day of the 4th month of 1324. It followed the Gen'ō era and preceded the Shōchū era. During this period, the reigning Emperor was Go-Daigo (後醍醐天皇).

The era's name was derived from a passage in the Book of Documents (尚書).

Events of the Genkō Era:

• 1324 (Genkō 4): The Shōchū Incident (正中の変, Shōchū no Hen) occurred. This was a failed plot led by Emperor Go-Daigo to overthrow the Kamakura shogunate. The plot was discovered before it could be fully executed, and many participants were arrested or forced into hiding. This event marked an escalation in Go-Daigo's efforts to restore imperial power.

Significance:

The Genkō era is significant for being a period of growing unrest and open conflict between the Imperial Court and the Kamakura shogunate. The Shōchū Incident, although a failure, demonstrated the Emperor's resolve and laid the groundwork for the later Genkō War (1331-1333), which ultimately led to the fall of the Kamakura shogunate and the Kenmu Restoration.