In eighteenth-century Japan, Tsunetomo Yamamoto created the "Hagakure, "a document that served as the basis for samurai warrior behavior. Its guiding principles greatly influenced the Japanese ruling class and shaped the underlying character of the Japanese psyche, from businessmen to soldiers. "Bushido "is the first English translation of this work. It provides a powerful message aimed at the mind and spirit of the samurai warrior. With "Bushido, "one can better put into perspective Japan s historical path. "