Episode 287 – Dark Side of the Rising Sun: Magicians of the Samurai w. Antony Cummins

Antony Cummins

Antony Cummins is an author-historian who specializes in medieval Japanese warfare and is the founder of the Historical Ninjutsu Research Team. His team focuses on translating and publishing historical shinobi manuals into the English language. Cummins’ goal is to gather the greatest amount of reference material on the ninja and help form a correct image of the truth behind Japanese samurai warfare. He has written several books on the subject, including “The Book of Samurai” series, which presents the teachings of the famed samurai school Natori-Ryu in the English language for the first time. Cummins has also translated ancient documents and searched forgotten Victorian volumes on Japanese mythology, making the complex information accessible to a modern audience. Some critics have accused Cummins of being a fraud, claiming he lacks understanding in the martial arts and makes false claims for personal gain. However, his educational background, which includes a degree in Ancient History and Archaeology and a Master’s degree in Archaeology, suggests he has a strong foundation in the subject matter. Despite these criticisms, Cummins has made significant contributions to the field of Japanese history and martial arts, and his work has been featured in various documentaries and publications.