Taisho period, Economic Decline

When did the Taisho period start?

1912-1926

What happened in the Taisho Democracy

• greater progression for representative democracy

• Literary societies flourished

• Tokyo began to adopt European-style Cafes, western clothing, music, film and theater culture.

• labour unions started large-scale strikes for labour inequalities

• Women suffrage movements began

What was caused economic crisis in Japan? (Before great depression)

• Post WW2 tariffs imposed by the west (impacted japanese exports)

• Great Kanto Earthquake 1923 (reconstruction funds)

• 1927 Banking Crisis, banks were merged/liquidated and many people lost up to 50% of savings. Decreased form 2000 to 625 banks.

What was the Sakurakai

A Secret Ultranationalist military society in Japan (pre WW2)

What where the goals of the Sakurakai? What were they known for?

• Goal to overthrow the government and establish military dictatorship in Japan

Known for:

• extremist views

• advocating for expansion of Japanese territories

• establishment of new imperial order in Asia

Who were the Zaibatsu?

Zaibatsu were the family controlled businesses that help monopolies within Japanese Empire.

What was the significance of the Zaibatsu

Became more influential during economic crisis, allowing them to collect money from all social classes & widely control the economy.