The Heian period in ancient Japan, though known as a golden age, saw increasing problems as the emperor's power weakened. Aristocrats lived well while peasants suffered in poverty. As the government collected fewer taxes and gave more land to nobles, it lost financial support and control. By 1180, with no law enforcement, bandits roamed as people of different religions fought. Local lords hired private armies, and a civil war began as they struggled for power in the capital. In 1185, Minamoto Yoritomo took control and changed Japan.