Japanese warlords, known as daimyō, were powerful feudal lords who ruled over large territories in Japan during the Edo period and earlier. They were often samurai leaders who commanded armies and governed their lands, collecting taxes and enforcing laws. The daimyō played a crucial role in the political landscape of Japan, especially during the Sengoku period, a time of constant military conflict and social upheaval. The daimyō were vassals to the shōgun, the military ruler of Japan, and their loyalty was essential for maintaining order. Many daimyō built impressive castles and developed their domains economically and culturally. Their influence waned after the unification of Japan under Tokugawa Ieyasu, leading to a more centralized government and the eventual end of the feudal system.