Naito Shōin (1829-1856) was a prominent Japanese scholar and political thinker during the late Edo period. He is best known for his contributions to the Sonno Joi movement, which advocated for the reverence of the emperor and the expulsion of foreign influence from Japan. His ideas played a significant role in shaping the political landscape leading up to the Meiji Restoration. Shōin was also a key figure in the development of Yoshida Shōin's educational philosophy, emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge and critical thinking. He founded a school in Hagi, where he taught students about Western science and military strategy, preparing them for Japan's modernization efforts.