Case study 1: Japanese expansion in East Asia (1931-1941) - 1.1 Causes of expansion

Japanese Expansion, What happened and When?

In 1931, Jap. army invaded E. China, and over the next decade, Japan expanded further into East Asia.

What factors combined to create a climate that began a period of Japanese aggression and expansion that eventually led to World War II in the Pacific Theatre?

Causes were rooted in Japanese nationalism and frustration with a world order dominated by the West.

The causes included the impact of Japanese militarism and nationalism on foreign policy, Japanese domestic political and economic issues, and increasing instability in China.

What is Nationalism?

A strong belief that a person's own nation is better than other nations. Nationalism is a powerful force that can give rise to xenophobia (fear of foreigners) and racism.

How can nationalism be used or exploited and why?

Nationalism can be used/exploited by governments and political figures to mobilize populations. They can do so in a benevolent nature, f. ex to enact a programme of economic modernization or social reform, but it can also be used to achieve aggressive or expansionist foreign policy aims at expense of other nations (meiji period and invasion of Manchuria).

What is Japan's transformational period into a newly industrial nation-state called and when did it occur?

The Meiji Restoration/Period (1868-1912)

Why did Japan feel the need for the Meiji Period?

-Aimed to emulate Western Powers like UK and France through polit. and econ. reforms

-Out of this emerged need for new territory in order to sustain econ. and encourage nationalistic feeling

What was one of the main influences in Japan's change in Foreign Policy?

Japanese Foreign Policy was influenced by a sense of national humiliation humiliation concerning its treatment by W. Powers; the Japanese government felt it had earned same level of international status as these nations, but resented what it believed as a demeaning attitude towards the country.

By the early 1930s, what are other internal and external factors that fueled Japan's expansionist ambitions in the East?

-Resolution of internal divisions regarding the direction of Japanese Foreign Policy

-Early Stages of Chinese Civil War

-State responses to the Great Depression

What territorial acquisitions had Japan achieved by 1910?

Formosa (Taiwan), Korea, Sakhalin (Island off the coast of Russia), Kuril Islands and Ryukyu Islands

What territorial acquisitions had Japan achieved by 1920?

Mariana and Marshall Islands and Shandong Province of China

What territorial acquisitions had Japan achieved by 1932?

Manchuria/Manchuko

What territorial acquisitions had Japan achieved by 1940?

Much of Chinese Eastern Seaboard and Vietnam

What territorial acquisitions had Japan achieved by 1942 (their peak) ?

Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Phillipines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Burma, N. half of Papua New Guinea, alliance with Thailand

What period came before the Meiji Period (1862-1912)?

The Edo Period (1603-1867)

What is the significance of the Edo Period (1603-1867)?

The Edo Period (1603-1867) was the deliberate isolation of Japan from the rest of the world

Why did Japan feel the need to isolate itself in the Edo Period (1603-1867)?

Because it perceived Christianity to be a threat to their society. In 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry of US Navy, commanding 2 steam ships and 2 sailing vessels, arrived on coast of Japan to open up trade between them., where J. nationalistic thinking clashed with them, and Christian missionaries were persecuted

What is an example of a event that made Japan feel the need to isolate and were scared of Western Powers?

A decade prior to Edo Period, Britain defeated China in the First Opium War (1839-42). Japan watched closely as China failed to resist Britain and observed their subsequent humiliating treatment as China was forced to hand over the port of Hong Kong.

Why did Japan end their period of isolation (Edo Period, 1603-1867)?

Witnessing China's humiliation from Britain after F.OpiumWar, Japan feared similar treatment. The Shogun agreed to sign Convention of Kanagawa in 1854, ending 220 years of Japanese isolation.

Results of the Convention of Kanagawa in 1854?

-Ended 220 years of Japanese isolation

-Established Diplomatic Relations with the US

-Opened Japanese ports to American trade

What does the Meiji Period (1868-1912) mean?

The Enlightened Rule

How did the Meiji Period (1868-1912) start?

With the teenage Emperor Meiji ascending to the throne in 1867, whereby a political crisis ensued

What was the political crisis that ensued following Emperor Meiji's ascension to the throne about?

The last Shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1867) faced opposition from nationalistic and anti-western daimyos (feudal lords) who were angry at Convention of Kanagawa (felt as if it undermined the Emperor) and the sudden influx of foreigners. This led to members of daimyo to rebel during a short civil war (Boshin War). The shogun realised the rebellion's strength and conceded powers to the Emperor and resigned. Full powers were restored to the imperial court.

What marks the official beginning of the Meiji Period (1868-1912)?

The Charter Oath Decree of April 1868, which declared the goals of the new government.

What impact did the Charter Oath Decree of April 1868 have on Japan?

Ushered in an era of social, political, economic and military reforms that fundamentally restructured Japanese society during the Meiji Period, lasting until 1912.

Charter Oath Decree of April 1868 - Social Reforms?

Removed rigid feudal structure of Japanese society and replaced it with a more modern social hierarchy.

Charter Oath Decree of April 1868 - Economic Reforms?

A market economy (similar to those of W. Europe) was established as Japan began a period of industrialization that was based upon the Western model.

Charter Oath Decree of April 1868 - Political Reforms?

Government control became centralised and included a limited form of Democracy, introducing a legislature known as the diet.

Charter Oath Decree of April 1868 - National Identity?

National unity and patriotism were strongly encouraged, with the slogan "Rich Country, Strong Military"

Charter Oath Decree of April 1868 - Military Reforms?

The Japanese military was reorganised, borrowing German military tactics and got help from the British to build up their navy.

What was a crucial aspect to Japan's political reforms during the Meiji Restoration in regards to the Emperor?

Japan emphasised maintaining the dominant powers of the Emperor throughout the process of continued modernisation.

How did Japan maintain the Emperor's dominant power throughout the Meiji Restoration?

Although the Diet was created (by the Meiji Constitution of 1889) to assist the Emperor in decision-making, it was not designed to be an equal branch in government. The Emperor could still veto legislation and issue his own edicts (laws etc).

Who are the Genrō and what is their significance to the Meiji Period (1868-1912)

The Genrō were a group of Japanese statesmen who assisted in writing the Meiji Constitution and, in actuality, held the balance of power during the Meiji Period

What is the Privy Council?

The Privy Council was an "inner circle" of higher ups who advised the Emperor on the application of executive and judicial powers, and like the Genrō, were not under the authority of the Diet

What was the significance of the 1889 Constitution to the Military?

The Military only answered to the Emperor now, and were given opportunities to increase their political power thanks to the constitution, which didn't specify the way in which members of the government were appointed or define their relationship with the Diet and the Emperor.

What sort of power did the military wield in terms of the government?

As the military argued that ministers of the army should be responsible to the Emperor and no one else and would, in turn, become cabinet ministers, they could tear governments who they disagreed with apart by resigning, giving them immense political power.

Why did the Japanese government pursue the "Western Model"?

Because they recognised that national advancement and survival relied upon modernisation and industrialisation, however, doing it alongside the resurgence of cultural nationalism, Japan had a tense, adversarial relationship with "Western Values".

As a result of the reforms of the Meiji Period, what did Japan proclaim as its destiny?

To become the leading nation in Asia.

What was Japan's destiny of becoming the leader of Asia based on?

Their considerable military and industrial prowess, leading them to call for the acquisition of new lands. Their desire for territorial gain was further fueled by strong nationalist urges built upon traditional Shinto religious beliefs.

When was the First Sino-Japanese War?

1894-1895

Why did the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) start?

When the Donghak Rebellion began in Korea in 1894, Korea asked Chinese Qing dynasty for help, which they agreed to, supplying 2,700 troops to restore order. However, Japan argued this violated the 1885 Convention of Tientsin, stating both sides had to notify the other before taking action in Korea. These tensions between Japan and China led to First Sino-Japanese War (1894-95), which Japan won easily.

Results of First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895)?

Japan seized part of the region of Manchuria and all of Shandong Province (both located in mainland China) and the island of Formosa (Taiwan), forcing a degree of economic dominance over China, and positioning itself as a colonial world power in Asia.

What was the western response to the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895)?

Western powers became concerned about the effect of Japanese power in Asia. Consequently, France, Germany and Russia (The Triple Intervention) acted diplomatically to return much of this new Japanese territory back to China, with the exception of Formosa, who got indepence. The Japanese withdrew from the Mainland in 1895, but were concerned when Russia moved in to occupy Manchuria 2 years later.

Why did the results of the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) anger Japan?

The process of gaining land due to military strength and then losing it due to Western diplomacy was infuriating, and consequently impacted militarism and nationalism in Japan immensely, reinforcing the need for a strong military so Japan could be successful.

Industrial effects of the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895)?

As a result of their humiliation, Japan underwent a period of intense industrialisation between 1896 and 1904, as the Japanese became determined to avoid being reliant on iron and steel imports.

What alliance was formed with Japan in 1902?

The Anglo-Japanese Alliance, strengthening Japan's position in Asia. It was formed because both countries were interested in working together to counter Russian expansion in East Asia.

When did the Russo-Japanese War occur?

1904-1905

Why did the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) start?

In Feb. 1904, Japan went to war with Russia over competing interests in Manchuria and Korea, Japan was also driven by an element of revanchism over the humiliation of the Triple Intervention and the subsequent loss of territory in Manchuria.

What does "Revanchism" mean?

Revanchism is a state's foreign policy that aims at revenge or the regaining of lost territories.

How did Japan do in the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905)?

Early on, Japan secured territory and a string of naval victories that surprised the Russian military.

What was the consensus of Japan and Russia in regards to the overall progress of the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905)?

Japan was able to show off its newly acquired militarily and naval might and Russia gained experience fighting in Asia, however, both sides were open to negotiating an end to the war.

Why were Japan and Russia BOTH willing to negotiate?

Russia was experiencing social and political unrest that would eventually culminate in the 1905 Revolution, whereas Japan was beginning to accumulate foreign debt, straining their economy. US Pres. Roosevelt acted as an intermediary and successfully negotiated the Treaty of Portsmouth.

When was the Treaty of Portsmouth signed?

The Treaty of Portsmouth was signed in September 1905.

What were the terms of the Treaty of Portsmouth?

-Japanese claims to Korea were recognised (Korea was an independent country at the time and was subsequently occupied by Japan in 1910)

-Russia was required to evacuate its troops from Manchuria and return land in S. Manchuria to China

-The South Manchurian Railway was given to Japan

-Japan was also given S. half of Sakhalin Islands.

What was the impact of the Treaty of Portsmouth to the Japanese?

Many Japanese were disappointed with the terms of the Treaty as they had expected to gain more territory. Japan did, however, gain the respect of the West and won the admiration of other Asian countries, who began to copy the Japanese model with regard to modernisation.

What was Japan's role in WW1?

At the beginning of WW1, Japan proposed to Britain that they would help secure sea lanes in the Pacific and Indian Oceans in return for seizing German territories in Asia, with Germany distracted with the war, Japan seized the German territory of Shandong China in 1914 (which was taken from them by the Triple Intervention)

What were the 21 demands?

In 1915, Japan sought to consolidate its economic and political dominance over China by issuing the "21 Demands" to them. These demanded further Japanese control of Chinese territory and infrastructure, and Japanese influence over Chinese government policy.

What was the response to the 21 demands?

Caused American, British and even domestic resistance, the 21 demands were reduced to 13 and accepted by China, these new territorial gains were confirmed in TOV in 1919

What were the outcomes of WW1 for Japan?

Although Japan had secured further territory and increased influence in E. Asia as a result of WW1, Japan left 1919 Paris Peace Conference disappointed it had not gained more.

What clause did Japan try to insert into the Covenant of the League of Nations?

A "racial equality" clause, an effort to ensure that Japan was treated like a great power, but these plans were foiled by UK and USA, leading to further anti-western sentiment

What did the Japanese expansion require in order to increase its territory?

A stronger army and navy to defend them

What were the effects of WW1 on Japan's economy?

Greatly benefited Japanese economy, Japan able to supply goods to its allies the Triple Entente (UK, FR, RU) and fill in the gaps in the Asian markets caused by them, leading them to become more self sufficient and to produce new goods, causing an economic boom, but only lasted to 1921

Japan's role in Russian Civil War (1917-1922)?

Sent 70,000 troops to support non-communist White Army, despite only being asked for 7,500 (a show of force), Japan remained after all had left and only withdrew when defeated by the Bolsheviks in 1922

What did Japan's actions in RCW (1917-1922) cause in regards to relations to Russia?

Japan's actions in RCW (1917-1922) created mistrust of Japan on the part of W. Powers and caused domestic anger against the government, who was blamed for the high cost of the intervention and their failure to control the military

What factors led to Japan becoming internationalist?

As a result of military adventurism during early 20th century, and under the influence of foreign minister Kijuro, Japan became more internationalist during the 1920s

What event best exemplifies Japan's shift to internationalism?

The Washington Conference of 1921 (The Four-Power Treaty), which replaced the Anglo-Japanese Alliance of 1902

What did the Four-Power Treaty stipulate?

It meant that Japan, USA, UK, and FR would all consult with each other if any territorial possessions in Asia were threatened

What was the Nine-Power Treaty of 1922 and who signed it?

Signed by China, Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal and signatories of Four-Power Treaty, Japan agreed to respect Chinese independence and sovereignty, and returned Shandong province (german colony) back to China

What is the Five-Power Naval Limitation Treaty and who signed it?

UK, USA, FR, IT agreed to restrain its building of battleships and aircraft carriers, and ended Japanese plans to expand Imperial Navy

What is the "Shidehara Diplomacy" of the 1920s?

When Japan commited itself to international cooperations and used peaceful means to develop its economy, mostly through maintaining a good trading relationship with the USA, however, some of these international agreements faced opposition within Japanese military

What does "Military Adventurism" mean?

refers to improvisation or experimentation on the part of the military

What is the "Taishō Democracy"

Following death of Emp. Meiji in 1912, he was succeeded by his son Emperor Taishō. During 1920s, Japan became domestically more liberal and democratic, developing what was known as the "Taishō Democracy"

What did the "Taishō Democracy" entail for domestic politics?

It became common for the Prime Minister to be the leader of one of the two main. political parties that controlled the Diet, rather than a member of the social elite. In 1925, the vote was extended to all adult males and there was a more open society in general

How was the new "Taishō Democracy" in danger?

Public trust in civic institutions = eroded following series of financial scandals and political corruption, there was also a widespread fear of left-wing radicalism

Political results of the "Taishō Democracy"?

As result of left wing radicalism fears, in 1925, goverment passed the Public Security Preservation Law which, although only aimed to Japanese Communist Party, censored anyone who questioned Japan's political structure

Why was there increasing opposition to the Japanese Internationalist Foreign Policy?

The Immigration Act in USA, limited immigration from all countries to 150k people per year and excluded Asian people from all quotas, Japanese considered new immigration restrictions offensive

How did increasing opposition to the Japanese Internationalist Foreign Policy benefit Japanese military?

Frustrated by restrictions imposed on them following RCW, they considered 4PT to be a UK led attempt to contain Japanese expansion and ambition

What were the two key events that ended the emergence of liberal democracy in Japan during 1920s?

Japanese military insubordination towards government in 1929 and the outbreak of the Great Depression in the same year

How did the Japanese military successfully defy the government?

By refusing to enforce discipline on the Kwantung Army (Japanese military force defending Japanese interests in Manchuria)

What caused the Qing Dynasty of China to end their 200 year plus rule?

The Taiping Rebellion of 1850, as a result of Opium Wars, W. Powers dominated China and forced it to trade with the outside world, the ensuing humiliation led to rise of movements aimed to modernise Chinese society, like "self-strengthening movement, a campaign for economic and military reform in China)

What did the Taiping Rebellion of 1850 lead to?

in 1899, with support from Empress Cixi (ruler of China), members of the Militia United in Righteousness (The Boxers) commited acts of violence against foreigners, particularly Western and Christian missionaries, this was the start of the "Boxer Rebellion", an anti western anti colonial and anti christian uprising in China

Foreign (Japanese) response to Boxer Rebellion of 1899?

An 8 nation alliance (UK,FR,RU,USA,DE,AU,HU,IT and Japan) intervened to end rebellion in 1901, further humiliating the Qing, who were ordered to pay reparations

Who were the Guomindang?

A pro-democracy political party who performed well in first National Assembly Elections of 1912, formed by Sun Yixian, however, following assasination of member of GMD, Sun led attempted revolution in 1913, forcing Sun to flee to exile in Japan

What is the "Warlord Era" of China?

Following death of Yuan Shikai (President), central authority collapsed and China was fragmented into different regions. each controlled by different warlords.

How did the "Warlord Era" benefit Japan?

Its fragmentation made it easier for Japan to fulfil its expansionist ambitions in China.

What is the "Northern Expedition"?

The Northern Expedition (1926-1927) was a joint campaign between the CCP and GMD to unify China. Together they formed the Chinese National Army, which advanced north into China, battling the forces of the warlords.

What started the Chinese Civil War?

After ideological differences starting to rise again, in April 1927, Chiang Kai Shek ordered the violent repression of the CCP in Shanghai to consolidate control of the GMD by siding with right-wing factions of his party, this was known as the "White Terror", as it forced CCP to abandon cities in GMD territory

What did the Chinese Civil War (1927-1937) entail?

GMD encirclement campaigns of Jiangxi (main CCP base), forcing them to flee. It was retaken during the "Long March" by Mao.

How did the first Chinese Civil War (1927-1937) benefit Japanese expansion?

Coincided with end of Taisho Democracy and seizure of Japanese foreign policy by military. This instability provided Japan with opportunity to seize more territory. This was exemplified by the Mukden Incident of 1931, where Japan seized Manchuria, conquering eastern seaboard of China during 2nd S-J War