Sakai Tadanaga

1527–1596

The Leading General of the Four Heavenly Kings, a Founding Contributor to the Tokugawa Shogunate

A loyal retainer and senior official in the Tokugawa clan, Sakai Tadanaga was married to Ieyasu’s aunt, making him an integral part of the Tokugawa family. He was fifteen years older than Ieyasu and had been through many hardships together during their time as hostages in Imagawa’s service.

Known for his unparalleled wisdom and bravery, he served as the chief retainer and leader of the Tokugawa forces in eastern Mikawa. During the Battle of Nagashino, he famously performed the “Ebisukui” dance to rally his troops, a gesture that lifted their spirits. He also played a pivotal role in a night raid that shifted the battle in Tokugawa’s favor, earning him the respect of Oda Nobunaga.

Despite his crucial role in the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Tadanaga passed away before he could witness Ieyasu’s rise to power. His loyalty and service to the Tokugawa cause were invaluable, and he remains a key figure in the Shogunate’s early successes.