How did the Tokugawa Shogunate take control of Japan by AD 1603?
Tokugawa Ieyasu was one of the main roles in transition from Ashikaga power to Tokugawa power. He was the founder and the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate of Japan. He seized the Ashikaga power and then established a government in Edo, which is now known as Tokyo. In 1603 he received the title sei-i taishogun - this title was only awarded to the 'Commander in-cheif." After the death of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Tokugawa Ieyasu made alliances with various daimyo, especially those who had no love for Hideyoshi. With another death of Toshiie (one of the most respected regents) in 1599, Tokugawa led an army to Fushimi and took over Osaka Castle, beginning his reigning power. This angered the three remaining regents and plans were made on all sides for war.