The Taira Clan was a powerful samurai family in Japan during the late Heian period (794-1185). They were known for their military prowess and played a significant role in the Genpei War, a conflict between the Taira and the Minamoto Clan. The Taira Clan's influence peaked under leaders like Taira no Kiyomori, who held significant political power and controlled key regions. The clan's downfall came after their defeat at the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185, which marked the end of the Genpei War. Following this loss, many Taira members were killed or exiled, leading to the rise of the Minamoto Clan and the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate.