ABC News feature for Civil War Samurai - Leiden University Press

ABC News feature for Civil War Samurai

May 12, 2026

We’re proud to have our author Natalia Doan and her latest book featured in international news 🌍

A recent WJLA report highlights her book Civil War Samurai, a remarkable story of Tateishi Onojirō — a 17-year-old samurai who captured the American imagination during Japan’s first diplomatic mission to the United States in 1860. Nicknamed “Tommy,” his story reveals how global encounters shaped culture, media, and identity in surprising ways.

This fascinating history is brought to life in the recently published – Civil War Samurai by Natalia Doan, released by Leiden University Press — offering fresh insight into early U.S.–Japan relations and the power of cross-cultural exchange.

📖 Curious to learn more? Take a look at the feature here
Discover the story behind Civil War Samurai and explore the book here

Image credit: Natalia Doan, YouTube channel

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