“Who was this man and why does this memorial exist?” These are the questions that arise as we approach the \u5929\u660e\u7fa9\u6c11\u677f\u5c4b\u5e02\u53f3\u885b\u9580\u5893\u6240.
This monument commemorates the brave actions of \u5e02\u53f3\u885b\u9580 and six other individuals. These seven men are known as the Gimin of Fushimi. Their story is one of defiance against injustice and sacrifice for the greater good.
Back in the Tenmei era, specifically 1785, Fushimi was under the rule of奉行, Bugyo, Masakata Kosakabe. He was the magistrate. Masakata’s administration was marked by corruption and heavy taxation that caused immense hardship for the townspeople. Among those suffering were 文珠, Monju, Kyu助ら. He was the town headman. He could not stand by and watch his community be exploited.
\u5e02\u53f3\u885b\u9580 and six other determined men decided to take a daring step. They decided to directly appeal to the shogunate in Edo. This was a grave offense. It broke the law of the land. It was an act of rebellion that could cost them their lives. Their mission was to expose Masakata’s misdeeds. They wanted to alleviate the suffering of the Fushimi townspeople.
The direct appeal which was straight to the shogunate, worked. Masakata was dismissed from his position. However, the shogunate feared similar uprisings so they imprisoned the seven men. Tragically, 久助ら and the other six men died in prison. They died as a result of illness during interrogation.
The \u5929\u660e\u7fa9\u6c11\u677f\u5c4b\u5e02\u53f3\u885b\u9580\u5893\u6240 was erected in 1887. It was a tribute to their courage. 勝海舟, Kaishu Katsu, wrote the inscription on the memorial. 三条実美, Sanetomi Sanjo, provided the calligraphy for the title. Every year on May 18th, a memorial service is held. The Fushimi Gimin Monument Preservation Society conducts the ceremony.
As you stand here at the \u5929\u660e\u7fa9\u6c11\u677f\u5c4b\u5e02\u53f3\u885b\u9580\u5893\u6240, remember the story of these seven brave men. They risked everything to fight for justice. Their sacrifice should inspire us all. Their legacy reminds us of the power of courage. It also shows us the importance of standing up against oppression. Let’s take a moment to reflect on their lives and honor their unwavering commitment to their community.