Mention the name "Yakuza" and Manga addicts will jump for joy. The term "Yakuza" mentioned to U.S. Law Enforcement authorities will probably evoke a different reaction. Mention the term "Yakuza" to the average Japanese and you may get an answer anywhere from praising the Yakuza as a collection of Robin Hoods who look out for the forgotten members of society or another answer which refers to them as criminal scum.

The Yakuza has its roots in 400 year old protection societies for peddlers and gamblers. Japan, however, closed itself off from the outside world for 300 years so these organizations were able to grow into a more dynamic and certainly large criminal organization which today we know as the Yakuza. Let's explore this fascinating part of criminal history.

Music: Japanese National Anthem (Instrumental)