ODA NOBUNAGA In 1551 young Nobunaga inherited his father’s growing domain, Owari province, and on his conquest dealt ruthlessly with his enemies. But he also masterminded a number of genuine accomplishments, both cultural and institutional. Nobunaga’s support of the Arts and his patronage was a powerful stimulus to the development of the brilliant culture of the Azuchi-Momagama period (1568-1600). Before Nobunaga, Japan was politically fragmented, but at the time of his death the realm united under his rule comprised over a third of this territory. The system of government he left behind was the foundation for the work of two generals who followed him.