Social Japan Unit final

What was the primary goal of Japan's Westernization?

To win respect for Japan by showing it was a modern, 'civilized' country.

What motto represented Japan's Westernization movement?

'Civilization and Enlightenment.'

What was the backlash against Westernization in Japan?

A hostile reaction to the rapid adoption of Western customs and styles.

What new motto replaced 'Civilization and Enlightenment' in Japan?

'Western science, Japanese essence.'

What was declared Japan's official religion during the period of Westernization?

Shinto, the traditional religion of Japan.

What significant change occurred in Japan's government structure during Westernization?

Japan adopted a constitutional government blending old and new ways.

What powers were described as 'sacred and inviolable' in Japan's new constitution?

The emperor's powers.

What was the Conscription Law of 1873?

A law requiring all males to serve in the military for three years and do reserve duty for four more years.

What was Japan's motto during its militarization process?

'Wealthy Country, Strong Army.'

What was the outcome of the Sino-Japanese War?

Japan won Taiwan and rights to China's Liaotung Peninsula, and China recognized Japan's claims to Korea.

What triggered the Russo-Japanese War?

Japan launched a surprise attack on Russian ships in Port Arthur.

What was a significant consequence of Japan's victory in the Russo-Japanese War?

Japan annexed Korea with little protest from Western countries.

What led to Japan's recognition as an imperial power?

Japan's victories in wars against China and Russia.

What were the key factors behind Japan's economic success in the 20th century?

The ability to learn from others, the importance of education, and the desire to be powerful and respected.

What cultural influences are seen in Japanese youth today?

Influences from foreign music and fashion, particularly American culture.

Who was Commodore Matthew Perry?

A U.S. naval officer who forced Japan to enter into trade with the United States.

What was the significance of Perry's demands on Japan?

It highlighted Japan's lack of military power and forced them to agree to trade treaties.

What was the reaction of some Japanese people to the rapid Westernization?

Concerns that society was losing its traditional identity.

What was the role of the Imperial Diet in Japan's new government?

It consisted of a House of Peers and a House of Representatives elected by the people.

What changes occurred in Japanese religion during the Meiji era?

Buddhism was discouraged, and Shinto was declared the official religion.

What was the impact of Westernization on Japan's military?

It led to the strengthening of Japan's military capabilities.

What was the outcome of the peace treaty after the Sino-Japanese War?

China ceded control of Korea to Japan and Japan gained Taiwan and economic rights in China.

What was the primary concern for Japan regarding its neighbors during the Meiji era?

The influence of Western powers, particularly Russia and China.

What did the Japanese government aim to achieve through militarization?

To protect itself against Western aggression and gain territory in Asia.

What was the public perception of the Deer Cry Pavilion?

It was seen as a symbol of excessive Westernization and led to backlash.

What was the significance of the term 'indemnity' in the context of the Sino-Japanese War?

It referred to the payment Japan demanded from China for its losses.

What was the effect of the Russo-Japanese War on Japan's international standing?

It established Japan as a formidable imperial power recognized by the West.

What was Commodore Perry's mission in Japan?

To establish trade relations between the United States and Japan.

Which countries had previously attempted to trade with Japan before Perry?

Portugal and the Netherlands.

What was Japan's policy regarding foreign trade prior to Perry's arrival?

Japan maintained a policy of isolation and controlled contact with foreign nations.

What significant event occurred in 1853 related to Commodore Perry?

Perry arrived in Japan carrying a letter from President Millard Fillmore.

What did President Fillmore's letter emphasize about trade?

It highlighted the potential benefits of trade between Japan and the United States.

What was the Treaty of Kanagawa?

The treaty that opened two Japanese ports to American ships and established an American consulate in Japan.

When was the Treaty of Kanagawa signed?

On March 31, 1854.

What were the terms of the Treaty of Kanagawa?

It opened two ports, established a consulate, and accepted demands regarding shipwrecked sailors and coal.

What was the reaction of many Japanese to the Treaty of Kanagawa?

Many were unhappy with the terms, viewing them as 'unequal treaties' that compromised Japan's sovereignty.

How did Commodore Perry's military presence affect Japan's decision to open trade?

Japan recognized the military superiority of the Americans and wanted to avoid potential conflict.

What historical event influenced Japan's decision to avoid being 'another China'?

The Opium Wars between China and Britain, which resulted in China's humiliation and loss of sovereignty.

What internal pressures were present in Japan at the time of Perry's arrival?

Loss of respect for the shogunate and uprisings against corruption.

What was the outcome of the civil unrest in Japan following Perry's arrival?

Civil war broke out, leading to the resignation of the shogun and the restoration of the emperor.

Who was Prince Mutsuhito?

The emperor who began his reign in 1867 and is known for the Meiji Restoration.

What does 'Meiji' mean?

'Enlightened rule,' the name chosen by Emperor Mutsuhito.

What was the Meiji Restoration?

The period of reform that began in 1867, emphasizing the importance of the emperor and modernization of Japan.

What was the goal of the Meiji leaders in reforming Japan's government?

To create a strong central government and a form of government similar to Western democracies.

What symbol did the Meiji leaders rally around to unify Japan?

The emperor, who was seen as a powerful symbol of national identity.

What was the impact of Perry's arrival on Japanese society?

It accelerated the end of isolation and led to significant political and social changes.

What did the Japanese fear might happen if they did not open trade?

They feared becoming victims of imperialism like China.

What was the reaction of the samurai to the changes brought by Perry's arrival?

The samurai who supported the emperor became advisors in the new government.

What characterized the Meiji period in Japan?

A focus on modernization, industrialization, and strengthening Japan's military and economy.

What was the significance of the treaties Japan signed with Western countries?

They marked the end of Japan's isolation and opened the country to international trade.

What was the fate of the shogunate after Perry's arrival?

The shogunate lost power and was eventually abolished in favor of imperial rule.

How did the Japanese view Perry's initial visit?

Some viewed it as a threat, while others saw it as a peaceful diplomatic mission.

What was one of the first actions taken by the Meiji leaders?

To emphasize allegiance to the emperor as the foundation of a strong nation.

What did the Meiji leaders realize about Japan's position in the world?

Japan needed to become strong economically and militarily to avoid domination by Western powers.

What was the foundation of a strong nation according to the Meiji leaders?

Allegiance to the emperor.

What was the first step taken by Meiji leaders to transform Japan?

Moving the imperial court from Kyoto to Tokyo.

What system was abolished by the Meiji government?

The samurai system.

What compensation was given to the daimyo for giving their lands to the state?

Pensions.

What document outlined the aims of the new Japanese society during the Meiji Restoration?

The Five Charter Oath.

What rights were granted to commoners after the Charter Oath?

The right to choose where to live and what occupation to pursue.

What significant change was made regarding family names for commoners?

They were allowed to have a family surname.

What was the impact of the Charter Oath on discrimination?

Legislation was passed to end discrimination against outcasts.

What remained unchanged in family dynamics despite the Charter Oath?

Fathers continued to have legal authority over family decisions.

What was the effect of high land taxes on rural peasant life?

Many peasants ended up renting or sharecropping land owned by others.

What was the goal of the Meiji leaders regarding education reform?

To bring the Japanese education system closer to those of the West.

What was the primary focus of education in Japan after the early 1880s?

To be based on traditional values and respect for the emperor.

What technological advancements intimidated the Japanese in 1853?

Steamships and military technology.

What period is known for dramatic changes in how goods were produced in the West?

The Industrial Revolution.

How did the Japanese government approach technological change during the Meiji period?

By gathering new ideas from abroad and hiring experts.

What economic system emphasized individualism and competitiveness in the marketplace?

The new economic system developed in Europe during the Renaissance.

Who became the most powerful man in Japan after defeating rival daimyo?

Tokugawa Ieyasu.

What title was given to Tokugawa Ieyasu by the Emperor in 1603?

Shogun of Japan.

What was the role of the shogun in Edo Japan?

The military ruler who served under the Emperor but was the real leader.

What was the purpose of the secret police established by the shogun?

To find dissenters and punish them.

What was the impact of strict dress laws during the Edo period?

To prevent class-mixing.

What was the significance of the Meiji Restoration for the Japanese economy?

It led to the planning, building, and funding of large industries by the government.

What happened to the large industries once they became prosperous?

They were sold at low prices to established large family firms.

What was the primary focus of the Meiji leaders in terms of societal change?

To ensure that Japan could modernize while maintaining control over the process.

What was the status of education for rural children during the Meiji period?

Many could not afford to send their children to school, leading to widespread illiteracy.

What was the relationship between the emperor and the government after the Meiji Restoration?

The emperor and the government were located in the same city, reinforcing their connection.

What were commoners forbidden from owning in Edo Japan?

Commoners were forbidden from owning weapons.

What was the samurai code of honor called?

Bushido, which emphasizes loyalty, courage, mastery of martial arts, and honor until death.

Who were the ronin?

Ronin were the lowest ranked samurai who had no masters.

What was the primary role of peasants in Edo Japan?

Peasants farmed the land to produce crops and were considered important for food production.

What was the status of artisans compared to peasants?

Artisans had lower status than peasants because they were not primary producers.

What was the role of merchants in Edo society?

Merchants bought items from artisans to trade or sell and were similar to bankers due to their role in rice distribution.

What occupations were associated with the outcast class in Edo Japan?

Outcasts had occupations involving death, such as leather tanners and butchers.

Who were the Ainu?

The Ainu were the Indigenous people of northern Japan, arriving 14,000 years ago.

What restrictions were placed on Ainu people by the Japanese government?

They were forbidden to speak their language, practice customs, and were forced to farm on allotted lands.

What determined a woman's responsibilities in Edo Japan?

A woman's responsibilities were determined by the class she was born into.

What was the significance of clothing in Edo Japan?

Clothing reflected social class, with strict codes governing what each class could wear.

What type of fabric were commoners allowed to wear?

Commoners were allowed to wear garments made of modest fabrics like cotton or hemp.

What is a kimono?

A kimono is a traditional Japanese garment worn by people of all classes, typically made of silk.

What is a yukata?

A yukata is a lighter, more casual type of kimono, usually worn in summer or at festivals.

What are zori?

Zori are traditional sandals made from natural materials, worn with special socks called tabi.

What is the mage or chonmage hairstyle?

A traditional Japanese men's haircut popular among samurai, featuring a shaved middle and a topknot.

What was the significance of the 47 Ronin story?

The story of the 47 Ronin exemplifies the values of honor and duty in Japanese culture.

What was the role of samurai in peacetime?

In peacetime, samurai served as officers who collected taxes, surveyed land, and maintained order.

What was the punishment for breaking fashion rules in Edo Japan?

The punishment for breaking fashion rules was extremely severe.

What type of kimono is a furisode?

A furisode is a type of kimono with long sleeves, worn by unmarried women to display wealth.