Takasugi ShinsukefromGintama was a remarkably complex antagonist, who often surprised fans. He had a very strong motivation and even if he didn’t have the best intentions, fans loved how far he was willing to go to achieve his goals.
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The anime itself was full of interesting characters, but Takasugi definitely stood out from the crowd. He was terrifyingly ruthless while all his anger and bitterness were channeled into his plans. There are some facts about his character which make Takasugi even more unique and memorable that not everyone might realize.
10 He Was The Leader Of The Kiheitai
Kiheitai or “Army of demon soldiers” was a Joui extremist group that was plotting against the Bakufu. Following the war, which the samurai lost, the group had to work secretly. After they managed to overthrow the Bakufu, Kiheitai went up against the Tendoushuu’s oppression.
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Later the group even helped humanity against Utsuro. While Takasugi was considered an antagonist, the Kihetai actually had done some good deeds as well.
9 His Character Was Based On A Real Samurai
There was in fact a samurai called Takasugi Shinsaku who lived between 1839 and 1867. The real Takasugi was also very ambitious, but he was rather looking for equality and eventually peace. He reformed the Japanese military system and allowed commoners in the army as well. Thanks to him there was a chance for anyone to become a distinguished military person.
It is also important to note, he founded the Kiheitai in 1863, but it had different goals— they fought against the Western occupying forces. Takasugi was among the figures who contributed to the Meiji Restoration.
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8 His Voice Actor Is Very Prolific
Anime fans are very likely to be familiar with actor Takehito Koyasu’s name as he has contributed to over 400 projects. He is a big name in the industry and fans know a series or movie is going to be great if they see his name on the cast list.
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Since 1988 he has been some of the most beloved characters’ voices. Viewers heard him as Kosaburo in Pokémon, Excalibur in Soul Eater, Aokiji in One Piece, and many more hit series.
7 He Went To The Same School As Gintoki
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Takatsugi had troubles fitting in when he was a child as he came from a poor family. When Takatsugi and his friend Katsura got in trouble, Yoshida Shouyou and Gintokisaved them. After he learned that Shouyou opened a school which intended to help everyone for free, he thankfully joined.
Even as a little child Takatsugi was highly motivated and always wanted to challenge others. When he lost to Gintoki in their first fight, he worked hard to become stronger and a better fighter.
6 He Was A Wanted Fugitive
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Following the Juoi War, seriousoppression came upon humanity and Takasugi wasn’t willing to give up on his ambitions. As the Kiheitai’s leader, he was a known enemy of the current rulers. Technically no one could rest until they knew Takasugi was free as he was always working on his next strike to end their reign. Takasugi was very good at uniting people, so he posed a constant threat to those who ruled Japan.
5 Matako Was In Love With Him
One of Patriot Reunion Party Arc’s antagonists Kijima Matako was extremely loyal to her leader in the Kiheitai. She was also known as Red Bullet thanks to her outstanding shooting skills. As fans saw more of her, it became clear Matako had stronger feelings than admiration.
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She was very protective of Takasugi and it seemed she loved him deeply. The fact that her leader didn’t return her feelings didn’t matter; Matako was always on Takasugi’s side even in the darkest moments.It's probably good that they never became an official couple because it probably would have been a toxic relationship.
4 He Was One Of The Most Popular Characters
Gintama fans were exceptionally fond of Takasugi. Despite him often being up against Gintoki, fans loved him for various reasons. Even if he was evil— or at least had unpopular aspirations— he was often kind, caring, and funny. Fans loved the episode when he sent a Happy New Year card to Gintoki, which was especially odd for an antagonist to do.
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He was also very determined, and when viewers learned that his anger was mainly fueled by his teacher’s death, he proved to be a more sympathetic character.
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3 He Wanted To Kill Gintoki
Although Gintoki and Takasuki grew up together as they were mentored by Shouyou and even fought side by side in the Joui Wars, the two ended up as enemies. Gintoki killed their teacher and even if Gin did so to save Katsura and him, he couldn’t forgive Gintoki for that.In addition, Takatsugi found Gintoki a threat to his plans and figured he would have to get rid of Gin to overthrow the Bakufu.
2 He Wanted To Destroy Japan
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As Takasugi was deeply hurt by his teacher’s murder, he swore to avenge everyone. He was very sad and bitter, which led to terrible ambitions. As a group of Amanto forced Gintokito kill Shouyou, Takasugi decided to go all out and destroy Japan.
For ten years following the tragic event, he was gathering people by reforming the Kiheitai to realize his plans. Thanks to his charisma, Takasugi was able to create quite a large army.
1 He Was One Of The Strongest Characters
It didn’t take long for fans to realize Takasugi was among the strongest characters in Gintama. He had extraordinary combat skills, which were difficult to match by his opponents. From his early childhood, he wanted to become the strongest, and that motivation lasted throughout his life.
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He was remarkably fast and effective with his katana, and few people could defeat him. Besides his swordsmanship, Takasugi was a great leader who was able to gather a dedicated andloyal army.
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