What was the role of the Emperor during the Warring States (Sengoku) period in Japan?

by kathaii

I'm trying to track the role of the Emperor and allegiance to the Imperial family over Japan's period of modernisation. I understand that one of the ideals of Meiji revolutionaries was to reinstate the Emperor (and they stormed his palace to demand his support?) - but where does this desire come from and what did they think this would result in?

ParallelPain

I summarized the position of the emperor (and his court) between the Kamakura and the early Edo here. Please give it a read.