The term "Minamoto" refers to a prominent clan in Japanese history, known for its significant role during the Heian period and the subsequent Kamakura period. The clan was one of the four major noble families in Japan, alongside the Taira, Fujiwara, and Abe. Members of the Minamoto clan were often warriors and played a crucial role in the establishment of the samurai class. One of the most famous figures from the Minamoto clan is Minamoto no Yoritomo, who became the first shogun of the Kamakura shogunate in 1192. This marked the beginning of military governance in Japan, shifting power from the imperial court to the samurai. The Minamoto clan's legacy continues to influence Japanese culture and history