is a
Japanese term used to refer to powerful and
wealthy families. In historical context, it usually refers to local
samurai clans with significant local
land holdings. Some were almost locally independent, and held strong ties to important
commoners such as wealthy
merchants. Unlike the
vassal samurai of the greater
lords, gozoku may or may not have held
court rank or served directly under a
liege. They tended to be financially secure and, if under a liege, less dependent upon him for
income.