Shōtoku, or Prince Shōtoku, was a prominent figure in early Japanese history, known for his role in promoting Buddhism and establishing a centralized government. He lived during the 7th century and is often credited with creating the first constitution in Japan, known as the Seventeen Article Constitution, which emphasized moral governance and the importance of law. He is also recognized for his efforts to strengthen ties with China and for introducing various cultural and political reforms. Shōtoku's legacy includes the promotion of the Buddhist faith, which significantly influenced Japanese culture and society, shaping the nation's spiritual and political landscape for centuries.