The term Samurai was originally used to denote the aristocratic warriors (bushi) in Japan and it is roughly translated to “those who serve”. Samurai led their lives according to the ethic code of “bushido” (the way of the warrior), promoting values like loyalty, self-discipline, respect and bravery. They had high prestige, special privileges and were the well-paid retainers of the daimyo, the great feudal landholders. They used a wide range of weapons, but their main symbol was the iconic sword. During the Edo period (1603 – 1868) peace prevailed, so the importance of martial skills declined. As modern military practices emerged, the samurai gradually became obsolete and replaced by “low cost” soldiers. While the traditional samurai class no longer exists, the samurai spirit and code of honor are still a part of Japanese culture.