RONIN CONNECTION

Rōnin were former samurai warriors, sometimes wandering, who had no lord or had left their binding service duties behind. Unlike the lonesome cowboy gunman, the former samurai could not officially take up a new trade or had abandoned cultural rituals, exiling themselves. Therefore, Rōnin looked for other ways to make a living with their skills. Rōnin who desired steady employment became security that protected trade caravans, or guards for wealthy merchants. Many earned the title Yojimbo, meaning bodyguard. Rōnin travelled the country offering service to anyone in need of a sword to hire. Many Rōnin answered the calling of villages when trouble occurred. Some misguided Rōnin served unsavory persons, serving as bandits and highwaymen, or protecting organized crime. Rōnin were generally known to operate as hired muscle for private businesses of legal gambling, trade, izakayas, and other similar entities. Today, we remember the skilled warriors and reflect on their service over self attitude and recognize no matter where we come from, no matter our past, there is always a calling for Ronin.