Fujiwara no Muchimaro

was a Japanese courtier (kuge) and politician of the late Asuka and early Nara period. He founded the Nanke ("Southern") branch of the Fujiwara clan. His court rank is Senior First Rank. Life Muchimaro is the eldest son of Fujiwara no Fuhito, and her mother Soga no Shōshi is the daughter of Soga no Murajiko. He married a granddaughter of Abe no Miushi, with whom he had two sons Fujiwara no Toyonari and Fujiwara no Nakamaro. Among his daughters was consort of Emperor Shōmu. Muchimaro became the head of Ministry of Civil Services in 718. When Fuhito, Muchimaro's father, died in 720, Prince Nagaya was at the highest rank in the state government. Prince Nagaya was grandson of Emperor Tenmu, but not a son of Fujiwara family, therefore was seen as a threat by Muchimaro and his three brothers. After successfully removing Prince Nagaya in 729, Muchimaro rose to Dainagon (Counselor of the first rank).