The Edo-period (1603-1868) in Japan was a time of relative peace and stability under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate. This era began when Tokugawa Ieyasu unified Japan after a long period of civil war. The shogunate established a strict social hierarchy and limited foreign influence, leading to a unique cultural development. During the Edo-period, urban centers like Edo (now Tokyo) flourished, and the population grew significantly. The period is known for advancements in arts, such as ukiyo-e woodblock prints and kabuki theater, as well as the rise of a merchant class that contributed to a vibrant economy.