Shinto, often translated as “the way of the gods,” is an indigenous religion of Japan characterized by a focus on ritual practices, reverence for kami (spirits or deities), and a deep connection to nature and ancestral veneration. It lacks a single founder, sacred text, or codified dogma, instead emphasizing purity, sincerity, and harmony with the natural world. Shinto practices include rituals at shrines, purification ceremonies, and festivals celebrating the kami. A common example is visiting a shrine to offer prayers and receive blessings.
Its importance in the context of AP World History stems from its profound influence on Japanese culture, politics, and social structures. It shaped the early imperial system, provided a unifying ideology, and contributed to Japan’s unique cultural identity. Its emphasis on the sacredness of the land and its connection to the imperial line played a significant role in Japanese history, impacting everything from art and literature to political ideologies and national identity, particularly during periods of modernization and expansion.
