Tokugawa Shogunate: Shimabara Rebellion Begins

December 17, 1637 - After several weeks of plotting, the Shimabara Rebellion erupts in Japan. Focused on the Shimabara Peninsula and Amakusa Island, the rebellion began as a peasant revolt against religious persecution, famine, and overtaxation. Largely Christian, the rebels scored several victories over local forces and nearly captured Shimabara Castle. Led by 14-year old Amakusa Shiro, the rebels occupied the ruins of Hara Castle and re-fortified and provisioned the site. Laying siege to the castle, the troops of Itakura Shigemasa unsuccessfully attacked its walls several times and were repulsed. In April 1638, with word that the rebels were low on ammunition and provisions, another assault was launched which captured the castle on the 15th. Executing all of the rebels taken alive, the shogunate forced Christianity underground where it remained for three centuries.