Japanese Imperialism

Unequal Treaties

Treaties imposed on China by Western powers that favored the latter, particularly after China's defeat in the Opium War.

Meiji Restoration

A period between 1868 and 1912 during which Japan underwent significant political, economic, and social changes, transitioning from a feudal system to a modern industrial state.

Sino-Japanese War

A conflict between China and Japan from 1894-1895, primarily over control of Korea, which resulted in Japan's victory and rise as a regional power.

Russo-Japanese War

The 1904-1905 war between Russia and Japan, where Japan defeated Russia, marking the first time an Asian nation triumphed over a major European power.

Shogun

The de facto ruler of Japan during the feudal period, holding the majority of political power while the emperor was a figurehead.

Shi-Shi (Men of High Purpose)

A group of idealistic samurai in Japan who opposed Western influence and felt that Japan's sovereignty was under threat.

Tokugawa Shogunate

The last shogunate (1603-1868) to govern Japan before the Meiji Restoration, characterized by strict social order and isolationist foreign policies.

Abolition of the Feudal System

One of the Meiji reforms that aimed to dismantle the feudal structure in Japan, redistributing land and power.

Human Rights & Religious Freedom

A key aspect of the Meiji reforms that sought to promote civil liberties and freedom of belief in Japan.

Modernize the Army

A part of Japan's efforts during the Meiji era to develop a modern military to protect its sovereignty against foreign powers.

Emperor Meiji

The emperor of Japan from 1868 to 1912, who played a critical role in the Meiji Restoration and the modernization of Japan.

Revere the Emperor, Expel the Barbarians

The slogan of the Shi-Shi samurai, emphasizing their belief in the divine right of the emperor and the need to resist foreign influence.

Modernizing Korean factories

An initiative taken by Japan after annexing Korea in 1910 to improve industrial production and strengthen economic control.

Westernize the School System

A reform during the Meiji period that aimed to adopt Western education methods and curricula in Japanese schools.

Boxer Rebellion

An anti-foreign uprising in China in 1900 that was suppressed by an international coalition, highlighting the tensions between foreign powers and Chinese sovereignty.