Database: Lady Nene

In her era, Nene, like all women, did not possess an official name. She was the daughter of a warrior from Owari, a vassal of Oda Nobunaga, and was also known by the names Nei or O-Ne. Her husband, Hideyoshi, affectionately referred to her as Nene. Upon Hideyoshi's appointment as Grand Chancellor (Kampaku), she was respectfully addressed as Kita no Mandokoro. Following Hideyoshi's death in 1598, she took the significant step of shaving her head and retreating to a hermitage in Kyoto, where she adopted the name Kōdai-in.

Despite her family's opposition to marrying a man of humble origins, Nene wed Hideyoshi, who was then merely an officer under Oda Nobunaga. She became his principal wife, and Hideyoshi, throughout his life, maintained a deep affection for her, though they were unable to have children. Their extensive correspondence reveals the profound trust and respect he held for her. Nene frequently offered him advice, both political and strategic, leading Hideyoshi to reverse several decisions based on her insights. Elevated to the high aristocracy, Nene garnered significant respect. Towards the end of his life, Hideyoshi fathered a son with his favored concubine, Yodo-dono, whose influence grew. Nevertheless, Nene retained Hideyoshi's affection until his death. Subsequently, as Kôdai'in, she withdrew from the political arena, yet the Tokugawa continued to extend their protection to her.