The "Northern Court" refers to a faction during the Japanese Nanboku-chō period (1336-1392), which was characterized by a struggle for power between two rival imperial lines. The Northern Court, established in Kamakura, was led by the Ashikaga shogunate and supported by various samurai clans. It claimed legitimacy over the imperial throne, opposing the Southern Court, which was based in Yoshino. The Northern Court's reign was marked by political instability and conflict, as it sought to consolidate power against the Southern Court. This period saw significant military engagements and shifting alliances, ultimately leading to the eventual unification of Japan under the Ashikaga rule.