Ōtomo no Otomaro

Quick Facts: Who was Ōtomo no Otomaro?

Subject:

Ōtomo no Otomaro

Known for:

Prominent Japanese general who first held the title of Sei-i Taishōgun.

Born:

731

Died:

809-06-14

Century / Era:

731s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Ōtomo no Otomaro (大伴 弟麻呂 or 大伴 乙麻呂; 731 – July 14, 809) was a Japanese general of the Nara period and of the early Heian period. He was the first to hold the title of sei-i taishōgun. The title of Shōgun was bestowed by Emperor Kanmu in 794. Some believe he was born in 727.

Career & Major Achievements

His father was Ōtomo no Koshibi. He was born of Ōtomo no Koshibi c. 731. He was granted the second grade of the fifth rank of honor in 799 and appointed the lieutenant (suke) of the Palace Guards in 780. In 783 he was made the deputy general in the Hitachi expedition.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 791 he was granted the second grade of the fourth rank of honor. In 794 he was declared Sei-i Taishōgun ("Barbarian-subduing Great General") by Emperor Kanmu, and together with Sakanoue no Tamuramaro subdued the Emishi. In 795 he was granted the second grade of the third rank of honor and the Order of Merit, Second Class, for his military achievements.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 731: Birth of Ōtomo no Otomaro — Prominent Japanese general who first held the title of Sei-i Taishōgun.
2. 809 (0809-06-14): Passing & Historical Legacy — Ōtomo no Otomaro passed away on 0809-06-14, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Ōtomo no Otomaro

True or False: “Ōtomo no Otomaro was granted the title of Shōgun by Emperor Kanmu in 794.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): While he was declared Sei-i Taishōgun by Emperor Kanmu in 794, the actual title of Shōgun was bestowed later.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Ōtomo no Otomaro