Kondou Isami (Isamu) Masayoshi

October 9, 1834 – April 25, 1868 (Lunar Calendar)

Bureau Chief (Commander) of the Shinsengumi

Adopted by Kondou Shuusuke the third generation master of the Tennen Rishin Ryu

Was originally the third son of a wealthy famer Miyagawa Kyoujirou

Was instructor and inherits the Shieikan dojo on 1861

Marries Matsui Tsune daughter of Matsui Yasogora which served the Shimizu family, 1860

Joins the Roshitai that was recruited by Kiyokawa Hachitarou in February 1863 from Denzuin temple going up to Kyoto

Breaks away from Kiyokawa, refusing to go back to Edo after Kiyokawa reveals his true intentions

Stays in Kyoto and eventually heads up the “Shinsengumi” for almost 4 years protecting Kyoto

In 1867, with 105 members, formally comes into the ranks/employment of the Tokugawa Bakufu as Hatamoto

Was attacked (shot by Abe Juuro) and injured by the remnants of the Kodaiji party in December 1867 in Osaka, then was forced to go back to Edo unable to participate in the Battle of Toba-Fushimi

In March 4, 1868 declares himself as Okubo Yamato and fights at Kofu Castle along with the remnants of the Shinsengumi

Losses a battle in Katsunuma and retreats to Shimousa Nagerayama where he surrendered in April to Aritomo of the New Imperial Army

Was executed on April 25 in Itabashi under false accusations for the killing of Sakamoto Ryoma, was 33

Head was displayed in the Sanjo bridge

Body is said to have been taken by a nephew through a bribe.

His sword the Kotetsu was said to be a reward/present of Matsudaira for Kondou’s services in the Ikedaya

That he has another Kotetsu that was a “fake” as inspected by Saitou

Buddhist name: Kan Amatsuin-dono Junchuu Masayoshi Ooi-shi

Grave is in Mitaka-shi, Tokyo Osawa Tatsugen Temple