The Hōjō clan was a powerful samurai family in Japan during the late Heian and Kamakura periods. They served as regents for the shogunate, particularly the Minamoto clan, and played a significant role in the political landscape of medieval Japan. The clan is best known for establishing the Kamakura shogunate, which marked the beginning of military rule in Japan. The Hōjō clan's influence peaked in the 13th century, but they eventually faced challenges from rival clans and external threats, such as the Mongol invasions. In 1333, the clan was overthrown by the Ashikaga clan, leading to the end of their dominance and the rise of a new era in Japanese history.