幸田成友 Koda Shigetomo 1933 to F. M. Trautz and Hilda

幸田成友 Koda Shigetomo 1933 to F. M. Trautz and Hilda

Postmarked January 1, 1933, from Yodobashi (Tokyo), this postcard is addressed to F. M. Trautz and his wife. It was sent by Kōda Shigetomo from 440 Kamiogikubo, Suginami-ku, Tokyo.

Kōda Shigetomo (幸田成友, 1873-1954) was a distinguished Japanese historian and economic historian, renowned for his significant contributions to the study of Japanese history, particularly the Edo period. Born in Tokyo in 1873, he was the younger brother of the famous writer Kōda Shigeyuki (幸田成行, 1867-1947), known by his pen name Kōda Rohan. Shigetomo graduated from Tokyo Imperial University in 1896 and later engaged in the compilation of the "History of Osaka City" from 1901 to 1909. He went on to teach at institutions such as Keio University and Tokyo College of Commerce, where he imparted his knowledge and passion for history to many students.

His scholarly pursuits led him to publish "Studies in Japanese Economic History" in 1928, earning him a Doctor of Literature degree. Shigetomo's research focused on various aspects of the Edo period's economic and urban history, with a particular emphasis on Osaka and Edo. He also conducted groundbreaking research on the history of Japan-Europe relations, spending two years studying in Europe, primarily in the Netherlands. Shigetomo's works, including "Oshio Heihachiro" and "Edo to Osaka", are considered seminal texts in the field of Japanese historical studies. Even after his death in 1954, his influence and legacy continue to inspire scholars in Japan and around the world.