Origins & Early Life

Kazuo Taoka (田岡 一雄, Taoka Kazuo; March 28, 1913 – July 23, 1981) was one of the most prominent yakuza godfathers. Known as the "Godfather of Godfathers" and "The Japanese Godfather", Taoka was third kumicho of the Yamaguchi-gumi, Japan's largest yakuza organization, from 1946 to 1981. Taoka, an orphan, grew up as a young street fighter in Kobe under the guidance of Noboru Yamaguchi, the Yamaguchi-gumi's boss. He earned his lifelong nickname "Kuma" ("the Bear") because of his signature attack of clawing at an opponent's eyes.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Taoka was imprisoned for murder from 1937 to 1943 and assumed the role of kumicho three years later, at the age of 33. As World War II and the subsequent occupation of Japan wound down, however, more national focus would be given onto the internal criminal syndicates. Consequently, severe police crackdowns and arrests would be constantly imminent, making it a high cost venture for relatively low profit. Taoka realized that the economic activities in the back alleys would quickly come to a dead end, and a suggestion from a friend made Taoka start a full-fledged port cargo handling business instead. In his time as boss, Taoka expanded...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Albert Camus — Contemporary (Born in 1913) (1913): Philosopher and writer known for Absurdism, The Stranger, and The Plague.
• Albert Ellis — Contemporary (Born in 1913) (1913): Pioneering figure in psychotherapy, founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
• Alfred Russel Wallace — Contemporary (Died in 1913) (1913): Naturalist and explorer who independently conceived the theory of evolution.
• Abigail Spencer — Contemporary (Born in 1981) (1981): American actress, producer, and writer known for roles in soap operas and dramas.
• Alicia Keys — Contemporary (Born in 1981) (1981): Award-winning pianist and vocalist known for her soulful R&B sound.
• Anwar Sadat — Contemporary (Died in 1981) (1981): Egyptian President who spearheaded economic reform and the peace treaty with Israel.
• Alexander Grothendieck — Shared historical date (03-28 · Born) (1928): Pioneering figure in modern algebraic geometry and category theory.
• Amancio Ortega — Shared historical date (03-28 · Born) (1936): Founder of Inditex and pioneer of the fast fashion industry.
• Alan Brooke, 1st Viscount Alanbrooke — Shared historical date (07-23 · Born) (1883): British Field Marshal and Chief of the Imperial General Staff during WWII.
• Alison Krauss — Shared historical date (07-23 · Born) (1971): Esteemed American bluegrass singer and musician known for her vibrant career.
• 1913 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1913
• March 28 (03-28) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on March 28
• 1981 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1981
• July 23 (07-23) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on July 23