Shikken

The Shikken (執権) was a title held by the de facto rulers of Japan during the Kamakura shogunate (1192–1333). The position was hereditary within the Hōjō clan. While the shōgun remained the formal head of the government, the shikken held actual political power.

The office was established by Hōjō Tokimasa, father-in-law of the second shōgun, Minamoto no Yoriie, in the late 12th century. Tokimasa maneuvered to become the shōgun's regent, effectively controlling the government. After Tokimasa's death, the position of shikken passed within the Hōjō clan, consolidating their power.

The shikken controlled the shōgun through various means, including manipulating succession and even exiling or assassinating shōgun they deemed unsuitable. The Hōjō also strengthened their position by controlling key government posts and land holdings.

The power of the shikken reached its peak during the reign of Hōjō Tokiyori in the mid-13th century. However, the shikken's authority was eventually challenged by the weakening Kamakura shogunate, the Mongol invasions, and internal conflicts. The last shikken, Hōjō Takatoki, was overthrown in 1333, marking the end of the Kamakura shogunate and the shikken regime.