Fujiwara no Michinaga (藤原 道長; Japanese pronunciation: [ɸɯ.(d)ʑi.wa.ɾa no (|) mʲi.tɕiꜜ.na.ɡa, -mʲi.tɕi.na.ɡa, -na.ŋa], 966 – 3 January 1028) was a Japanese statesman. The Fujiwara clan's control over Japan and its politics reached its zenith under his leadership.
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Early life
Michinaga was born in Kyōto, the son of Kaneie. Kaneie had become Regent in 986, holding the position until the end of his life in 990. Due to the hereditary principle of the Fujiwara Regents, Michinaga was now in line to become Regent after his brothers, Michitaka and Michikane.
Career
Struggle with Korechika
Michitaka was regent from 990 until 995, when he died. Michikane then succeeded him, famously ruling as Regent for only seven days before he too died of disease. With his two elder brothers dead, Michinaga then struggled with Fujiwara no Korechika, Michitaka's eldest son and the successor he had named. The mother of Ichijō, Fujiwara no Senshi, coerced Ichijō into granting Michinaga the title of Nairan (内覧) in the fifth month of 995. Korechika's position was ruined by a scandal that took place the following year, likely arranged by Michinaga.