Emperor Kōbun

Emperor Kōbun (大友天皇, Ōtomo-tennō, 648 – August 21, 672) was the 39th emperor of Japan, according to traditional records. His personal name was Prince Ōtomo (大友皇子, Ōtomo no ōji). He became emperor in 672 after the death of his father, Emperor Tenji. He ruled for only a short time before dying in a civil war.

 Early life 
Prince Ōtomo was born in the year 648. He was the oldest son of Emperor Tenji. During his father's reign, he was given important roles in the government. In 671, Emperor Tenji gave him full control over the government.

 Becoming emperor 
After Emperor Tenji died in 672, Prince Ōtomo became emperor. Later, people called him Emperor Kōbun. But his uncle, Prince Ōama, also wanted to become emperor. This led to a civil war called the Jinshin War.

 Jinshin War and death 
The Jinshin War was short. Prince Ōama's army defeated Kōbun's side. On August 21, 672, Kōbun died. Some say he killed himself.

 After death 
After Kōbun died, Prince Ōama became Emperor Tenmu. For a long time, Kōbun was not officially counted as an emperor. But later, he was added to the official list of emperors and given the name Emperor Kōbun.

 Related pages 

 Emperor Tenji
 Emperor Tenmu
 Jinshin War
 List of emperors of Japan

 References 
Category:Emperors of Japan