The Sengoku period, also known as the "Warring States" period, was a time of social upheaval and military conflict in Japan from the mid-15th century to the early 17th century. It was characterized by the rise of powerful regional lords, known as daimyō, who fought for control over territories and influence. This era saw the decline of the Ashikaga shogunate and the fragmentation of political power. The Sengoku period ended with the unification of Japan under Tokugawa Ieyasu after the decisive battle of Sekigahara in 1600. This led to the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate, which brought about a long period of peace and stability known as the Edo period. The conflicts and alliances formed during the Sengoku period significantly shaped Japan's history and culture.