Answer:
The social hierarchy in Japan during the Shogun period (1185-1868) was significantly different from that of the Heian period (794-1185). During the Heian period, the social hierarchy was based on a system called "Kabane," which was a rank-based system that determined one's social status based on their ancestry and occupation. In contrast, during the Shogun period, the social hierarchy was based on a system called "Shinokosho," which was a class-based system that determined one's social status based on their occupation.
In the Shinokosho system, there were four main classes: samurai, peasants, artisans, and merchants. The samurai were at the top of the social hierarchy and held great power and influence. They were warriors who served as protectors of their lords and were trained in martial arts. The peasants were next in line and were responsible for farming and providing food for the rest of society. Artisans were skilled craftsmen who produced goods such as pottery, textiles, and weapons. Finally, merchants were at the bottom of the social hierarchy and were responsible for trading goods between different regions.
During the Heian period, the Kabane system determined one's social status based on their ancestry and occupation. The highest rank was held by members of the imperial family, followed by nobles and courtiers. The lowest rank was held by commoners who worked as farmers or artisans.
The differences between these two systems reflect broader changes in Japanese society during this time period. During the Heian period, Japan was largely ruled by a centralized government that relied on noble families to provide administrative support. However, during the Shogun period, power shifted to regional lords who relied on samurai warriors to maintain order and protect their territories.