G12 - Japanese nationalism and militarism

Define Japan as a state after the modernization

An ultranationalist state

The meaning with Meiji Restoration

Protect Japan from foreign domination

Result of the Modernisation

Placed great stress on Japanasese society - the economy, so the people would turn to the military to control the state's economy - by the 1930's

How did the Meji Constitution organise Japan's government and for what reason?

The constitution required that all laws were agreed upon by all the ministers. This meant that if one refused to sign the government would collapse and new ministers had to be appointed or compromises had to be established.

Meji Constitution influence on the military

The military's power increased, since they could veto any decision and could threaten to dissolve a government if their demands were not met.

The military independency by the Meji consitituion

They reported directly to the Emperor and had to caninet position in all governments.

Privy Council

Small government body of elites whose approval was required for laws, major political appointees an more; they controlled access to the Emperor of Japan and were heavily relied on by the Emperor owing to their prestige and experience.

How was the parliaments diet organised under the constitution?

An elected House of Representatives (Elected by those with suffrage - all men over 25 years old).

An Appointed House of Peers (Composed after nobility - high taxpayers, famous individuals and special appointments by the Emperor).

How did the education system promote nationalism and loyalty to the state?

By creating a national curriculum. A curriculum that involved: Emphasise on loyalty for the state, family and community. Value the Emperor's divinity and aspects of Japan's history - FOCUS ON JAPAN'S UNIQUENESS.

Modernised Japan required school?

Four years; in 1903 expanded to six years. This lead to an increased literacy throughout the country - it created huge awareness of government and its policies (also resulted in growing opposition)

How was the military worked into the curriculum in the schools and with what purpose?

The schools encouraged the students to service the military and protect the Emperor.
Teachers in training were taught military drills and by 1920s the students were forced to participate in them.
The purpose was to increase the popularity of the military.

What factors may have contributed to the rise of radical nationalism?

Japan had unique history as the only country in Asian. Japan had never been conquered by any European powers or the USA. The idea that Japan should lead the other asian countries therefore appeared. This also meant that philsosphies that all non-asian dominance should be removed.

How did it show that militarism was also closely connected with the idea of Japan's mission

In order to protect Japan from attack from other countries Japan had to build and maintain a strong military. Military in Japan was at the same time a political force