1605 drawing of Sumo wrestler that may illustrate Yasuke.

1605 drawing of Sumo wrestler that may illustrate Yasuke.

The picture credits – Illustration by Meilan Solly / Photos via Wikimedia Commons under public domain.

Here are some of the arguments in favor of the claim that Yasuke was the first foreign-born samurai:
Historical Records: Yasuke is mentioned in the writings of the 16th century, such as the diary of a fellow samurai, Matsudaira Ietada. These records describe Yasuke as a tall African man who arrived in Japan in 1579.
Service to Oda Nobunaga: Yasuke served under Oda Nobunaga, one of the most important feudal lords in Japanese history and a unifier of the country. He was so impressed by Yasuke’s size and strength that he instantly promoted him to his service.
Samurai Status: Japanese chronicles report that in 1581, Nobunaga bestowed the rank of samurai on Yasuke. This act placed an African foreigner at the heart of the samurai military aristocracy.
Training in Japanese Warfare: Yasuke was trained in the art of Japanese warfare and was considered an asset. He was the first documented foreign-born retainer to a Japanese lord.
These points suggest that Yasuke was indeed the first foreign-born individual to achieve the status of a samurai warrior in Japan.