The Matsudaira clan was a prominent samurai family in Japan, known for its significant role during the Edo period. Originating from the Mikawa Province, the clan was founded by Matsudaira Kiyomasa in the 16th century. They were vassals to the Tokugawa clan and played a crucial part in the unification of Japan under Tokugawa Ieyasu. The clan's most notable member, Tokugawa Ieyasu, became the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years. The Matsudaira clan's influence extended through various branches, contributing to the political landscape of feudal Japan and maintaining their status until the Meiji Restoration.