The people of the various provinces are forbidden to have in their possession any swords, bows, spears, firearms, or other types of arms. The possession of these elements makes difficult the collection of taxes and dues, and tends to permit uprising. Therefore, the heads of provinces, official agents and deputies are ordered to collect all the weapons mentioned above and turn them over to the government.

Toyotomi Hideyoshit
Shogun
August 29, 1558
Japan
[I admire his honest and forthrightness.  If only present day politicians would be so when they demand we turn over our personal protection tools.--Joe]