The historical role of the samurai in feudal Japan was multifaceted, encompassing military, social, and political elements. Samurai were elite warriors who adhered to the code of Bushido, which emphasized loyalty, honor, and discipline. They served noble families as soldiers and administrators, and their martial skills played a crucial role in the constant power struggles of feudal Japan. Beyond their combat roles, samurai also contributed to cultural development, including poetry, calligraphy, and Zen Buddhism. Their status began to erode during the Meiji Restoration, which led to the modernization of Japan and the abolition of the samurai class.