The 센고쿠 시대, or Sengoku period, was a time of social upheaval and military conflict in Japan that lasted from the mid-15th century to the early 17th century. It was marked by the rise of powerful regional lords known as 다이묘, who fought for control over territories. This era saw the breakdown of central authority and the emergence of numerous battles among rival clans. During the 센고쿠 시대, significant figures like 오다 노부나가 and 도요토미 히데요시 played crucial roles in unifying Japan. The period ended with the establishment of the 에도 막부 in 1603, which brought about a long era of peace and stability known as the 에도 시대.