Modern Chinese and Japanese History

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts and events in modern Chinese and Japanese history, focusing on movements, political dynamics, and significant historical events.

What was the May Fourth Movement?

A 1919 movement in China characterized by massive demonstrations demanding decolonization after the Treaty of Versailles.

What was the reaction of China to the Treaty of Versailles?

China was angry and disillusioned because the treaty allowed Japan to claim Germany's influence in China.

What political movements rose as a result of the May Fourth Movement?

A strong sense of nationalism arose along with the increased appeal of communism.

When was the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) founded?

The CCP was founded in 1921.

What was the purpose of the First United Front?

To unify China by getting rid of warlordism.

Who were important figures in the First United Front?

Sun Yat-sen of the KMT and Bolshevik support from the USSR.

What triggered the Shanghai Massacre?

The Nationalist Kuomintang executed Communists and their supporters in 1927.

What was the Long March?

A military retreat by the CCP from 1934-1935 establishing Mao's leadership.

What was Taisho Democracy?

A period in Japan (1912-1931) when democracy was experimented with through a two-party system.

What was the impact of World War I on Japan's economy?

Japan's economy was stimulated due to war production demands.

What were the rice riots in Japan?

Social unrest in the 1920s caused by increased rice prices and poor economic conditions.

What did Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution entail?

It renounces war and prohibits Japan from maintaining military forces.

What was the Manchurian Incident of 1931?

A staged attack by Japanese soldiers to justify Japan's invasion and control of Manchuria.

What was the significance of the Second United Front?

It was formed in 1937 as an alliance between the KMT and CCP to resist Japanese aggression.

What does the phrase 'The Rape of Nanking' refer to?

The mass murder and rape committed by Japanese troops in Nanking from December 1937 to February 1938.

When did the US drop atomic bombs on Japan?

On August 6 and August 9, 1945.

What was the San Francisco Peace Treaty?

A 1951 treaty that officially ended the state of war between Japan and the Allied Powers.

How did Japan's economy change post-WWII?

Japan experienced significant economic recovery and growth under the Yoshida Doctrine.

What is 'Confucian Capitalism'?

Japan's economic model where close ties existed between government planning and big business.

What is the 'Nuclear Umbrella'?

The protection offered to Japan by the U.S. military in exchange for military bases in Japan.

What led to the economic bubble in Japan in the late 1980s?

Trade imbalances, a strong yen, and speculative investments in real estate.

What was the Plaza Accord?

An agreement in 1985 among the U.S., Japan, and other nations to depreciate the U.S. dollar.

What symbolizes the end of the Maoist era?

The death of Mao Zedong in 1976.

What were the Four Modernizations in China?

Economic reforms launched by Deng Xiaoping focusing on agriculture, industry, science and technology, and military.

What was the Cultural Revolution?

A socio-political movement from 1966 to 1976 aimed at reinforcing communist ideology in China.

What was the outcome of the Korean War?

A stalemate ending with an armistice and the establishment of the Korean Demilitarized Zone.

What happens in Tiananmen Square in 1989?

A crackdown by the Chinese government on pro-democracy protests.

What are the 'Four Olds' that Mao targeted?

Old customs, culture, habits, and ideas.

What does the term 'Red Guards' refer to?

Student-led groups during the Cultural Revolution who attacked perceived enemies of communism.

What major political change occurred in China after Mao's death?

The rise of Deng Xiaoping and the shift towards economic reforms.

What is significant about the 1947 Constitution of Japan?

It established democratic governance while renouncing war.

When did the U.S. establish full diplomatic relations with China?

In 1979.

What challenges did Japan face in the 1990s?

Economic recession and stagnation after the asset bubble burst.

What is Japan's 'One China' policy?

An agreement recognizing Taiwan as part of China.

What was the impact of the 'Nixon Shock'?

It paved the way for improved relations between the U.S. and China amid the Cold War.

What was the main focus of Japan’s post-WWII economic policies?

To recover economically through ties with the U.S. and reforms.

What did the Japanese education reforms emphasize after WWII?

Democratization and removal of militaristic ideas in education.

What are special economic zones?

Areas in China where foreign investment and private business were permitted.

What major foreign confrontation did China engage in during the early Cold War?

The Korean War.

How did Japan's political landscape change in the 2000s?

There was a shift towards more assertive military and foreign policies.

What led to the 'Chip War' between the U.S. and China?

Competition for technological superiority in semiconductor industries.

What role did Sun Yat-sen play in Chinese history?

He was a key figure in Chinese nationalism and the founding of the Republic of China.

What strategy did the U.S. use toward China in the face of its rising power?

Constructive engagement and economic ties.

How did women's roles change in post-war Japan?

Women began to enter the workforce in greater numbers and delay marriage.

What were the objectives of the Hundred Flowers Campaign?

Encouraging intellectuals to express criticism openly, which led to a backlash.

What was the significance of the 'Great Leap Forward'?

An economic campaign aimed at rapidly transforming China into a socialist society through rapid industrialization.

What did 'Deng Xiaoping Theory' promote?

Pragmatic economic reforms and 'socialism with Chinese characteristics'.

What was the focus of the Japanese post-war occupation?

Demilitarization, democratization, and economic rebuilding.

What were the consequences of China's economic reforms under Deng?

Massive economic growth but increased social disparities.

How did Japan apologize for its wartime actions?

Japan has issued statements of remorse but lacks a formal, unambiguous apology.

What role does public opinion play in China today?

Young people are increasingly vocal and open-minded compared to previous generations.

What was the impact of the Great Depression on Japan?

It led to economic decline, rising unemployment, and increased militarism.

What was the 'Anti-Rightist Campaign'?

A political campaign targeting intellectuals who criticized the Communist Party.

How did the education system change during the Cultural Revolution?

Schools were closed and education was politicized.

What was the consequence of the 'Rice Riots' during Taisho Japan?

They demonstrated widespread social unrest due to economic conditions.

What strategic military alliance does Japan have with the United States?

The U.S.-Japan Mutual Security Treaty.

What is the cultural significance of Junzi in Confucianism?

It represents the ideal of moral integrity and ethical governance.

What does Japan's 'nuclear umbrella' entail?

Protection through U.S. nuclear capabilities in defense of Japan.

What led to the rise of the 'new women' in Japan?

The emergence of feminist movements and a shift in societal expectations.

What does the term 'Zai Batsu' refer to?

Large conglomerates in Japan that dominate the economy.

What was the intent behind Japan's post-war land reforms?

To redistribute land to create a more equitable society.

How did the Sino-American relations evolve after Tiananmen Square?

Relations became strained, impacting diplomatic and trade policies.

What caused Japan's economic stagnation in the 1990s?

Due to inflated asset prices and a subsequent collapse.

How did China address environmental issues while modernizing?

Through increased investments in green energy and sustainable practices.

What are the 'Three D's' of post-war Japan's reforms?

Demilitarization, Demystification of Emperor, and Democratization.

What historical event is marked by the Marco Polo Bridge Incident?

It is often considered the beginning of WWII in Asia.

What did the CCP focus on for political legitimacy after the civil war?

Land reform and extending women's rights to gain popular support.

What is the 'floating population' in China?

Migrants who move from rural areas to cities for work but lack formal residency status.

What were the social consequences of Deng Xiaoping's economic reforms?

They widened the urban-rural divide and increased socioeconomic disparities.

What was the role of women in Mao's China?

Women were encouraged to participate in the labor force, challenging traditional roles.

What happened during the Anti-Japanese War from 1937-1945?

It involved significant conflict between Japanese invaders and Chinese nationalists and communists.

How did the Korean War affect U.S.-China relations?

It solidified tensions and established the Cold War dynamics between the U.S. and China.

What was the significance of the May Fourth Movement in 1919?

It initiated a cultural and political awakening in China, leading to nationalism.

Why did Mao launch the Great Leap Forward?

To rapidly industrialize China and achieve economic independence.

What fundamental changes did the 1947 Constitution bring to Japan?

It established Japan as a pacifist state with a focus on civil rights.