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Japan: Lady Oichi, wife of Shibata Katsuie (1547-1583).

Japan: Lady Oichi, wife of Shibata Katsuie (1547-1583).

Oichi or Oichi-no-kata (1547–1583) was a female historical figure from the late Sengoku period. She is known primarily as the mother of three daughters who married well - Yodo Dono, Ohatsu and Oeyo. Oichi was the younger sister of Oda Nobunaga, and was also the sister-in-law of Nōhime, the daughter of Saitō Dōsan. Oichi was equally renowned for her beauty and her resolve. She was descended from the Taira and Fujiwara clans.

In 1583, Shibata Katsuie was defeated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the Battle of Shizugatake, forcing him to retreat to his home at Kitanosho Castle. As Hideyoshi's army lay siege to the castle, Katsuie implored Oichi to flee with her daughters and seek Hideyoshi's protection. Oichi refused, insisting on dying with her husband after their daughters were sent away. The couple reportedly died in the castle's flames.

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