Harada Ban Naomasa – History’s Forgotten Hero

How a fine warriors’ death in action infuriated Oda Nobunaga, and the shocking consequences.

Ban Kurozaemon Naomasa (Also known as Hanawa, and even Harada Naomasa) was a senior vassal of Oda Nobunaga. Through his fine military efforts, he became the lord of Makishima Castle and Shugo (Governor) of Yamashiro Province and later lord of Tamon-yama Castle while also serving as Shugo of Yamato.  He was defeated in a battle against the Ishiyama Hongan-ji and was killed in action along with his vassals. What happened after his death, is incomprehensible.