What is ouchi clan?

The Ouchi clan was a powerful Japanese samurai clan during the Muromachi period (1336-1573). They were based in the province of Suo (modern-day Yamaguchi Prefecture) in western Japan and were one of the three most influential families in the region, along with the Mori and Sue clans. The Ouchi clan was known for its military prowess and played a prominent role in the politics of the period, serving as governors of several provinces and even briefly ruling over the entire Chūgoku region. They were also known for their cultural patronage, supporting the arts and sponsoring famous temples and shrines. However, the clan's power declined in the late 16th century, and they were eventually destroyed in a battle with the invading forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1577.