Oppressed Peasants and Capital Cities - History of Japan Cameron Foster

This episode deals with the social and political structure of eight century Japan, with particular emphasis on the lives of the peasants.  The life of peasants was basically rubbish.  When they weren't building entire cities for no pay they had to fight in the army for nothing while their families starved.  Oh and they had to pay for their own food and equipment.

A great series to follow if you don't know much about Japan or if  you like your history tinged with a bit of humour.

http://frug.podbean.com/2010/08/15/episode-4-kyoto-spooky-princes-and-oppressed-peasants/