Japan's Shift to Military Dictatorship in the 1930s

What was Japan's status after World War I?

Japan was a wealthy nation recognized as one of the five world powers with a brand new constitutional monarchy.

What was the role of the Emperor in Japan's government structure?

The Emperor had authority over war and peace, while the Diet was responsible for passing laws.

What were some of the problems Japan faced at the Paris Peace Talks in 1919?

Japan faced racial problems, including the rejection of its proposed 'Racial Equality Clause' by other nations.

What was the 'Racial Equality Clause' proposed by Japan?

It aimed to ensure equal treatment for all alien nationals of League of Nations member states, regardless of race or nationality.

Why did the United States oppose Japan's 'Racial Equality Clause'?

The U.S. was concerned about limited Japanese immigration and feared it would affect its participation in the League of Nations.

What was the public opinion in Japan regarding the League of Nations?

The Japanese population viewed the government as weak due to perceived failures in the League of Nations and the Washington Naval Conferences.

What was the outcome of the Washington Naval Conferences for Japan?

Japan agreed to limit its naval size to three-fifths that of the U.S. and Britain, which was seen as a humiliation.

What factors contributed to the failure of democracy in Japan during the 1930s?

Political factors, economic issues, and events in Manchuria contributed to the failure of democracy.

What were some political factors leading to the fall of democracy in Japan?

Failure of political parties, increasing nationalism, and the influence of military-led secret societies.

What economic problems did Japan face in the 1920s?

Overproduction in industry and agriculture led to decreased prices and profits, resulting in unemployment.

How did the Great Depression affect Japan?

The Great Depression led to a worldwide economic shutdown, increased unemployment, and distrust in the government.

What was Japan's interest in Manchuria?

Japan had extensive trade and investment interests in Manchuria, which were protected by the Japanese Kwantung Army.

What was the Sakurakai?

A military-led secret society in Japan that aimed to restore power to the military and society.

What event marked the beginning of Japan's military dictatorship?

The invasion of Manchuria in 1931 was a significant event leading to the collapse of Japan's democracy.

What was the Japanese Exclusion Act of 1924?

A U.S. law that limited Japanese immigration, contributing to feelings of humiliation and nationalism in Japan.

Who was Prime Minister Inaku Tsuyoshi?

He was a Japanese Prime Minister who was assassinated by military officers, reflecting the rise of military influence.

What impact did the Great Depression have on Japanese labor organizations?

Labor organizations faced suppression by the government during the economic turmoil of the Great Depression.

What was the significance of the Shantung Province issue for Japan?

Japan was promised the Shantung Province, a former German territory, but it was ultimately given to China, causing resentment.

What was the public perception of democracy in Japan during the 1930s?

Democracy was new and unpopular in Japan, leading to a preference for traditional power structures.

What were the consequences of Japan's military dictatorship in the 1930s?

The dictatorship led to increased militarism, expansionist policies, and ultimately Japan's involvement in World War II.

What role did secret societies play in Japan's political landscape?

Secret societies like the Sakurakai influenced political decisions and contributed to the rise of military power.

How did Japan's economic prosperity during WWI affect its post-war economy?

Post-war economic policies continued the overproduction trend, leading to economic instability and unemployment.

What was Japan's interest in Manchuria before the invasion?

Japan had extensive trade and investment in Manchuria, which was protected by the Japanese Kwantung Army.

What significant event occurred in 1931 regarding Manchuria?

The Kwantung Army took Manchuria without permission and renamed it Manchukuo, establishing it as a puppet state.

Who was the leader of Manchukuo after its establishment?

Puyi was appointed as the puppet leader of Manchukuo.

What happened to Prime Minister Tsuyoshi after the invasion of Manchuria?

He was criticized for his lenient stance towards the invasion and was assassinated.

What was Emperor Hirohito's stance on the invasion of Manchuria?

He was against the attack but did not order the withdrawal of troops due to concerns about losing prestige.

What were some historical arguments for the Kwantung Army's invasion of Manchuria?

1. Chinese undermined Japan's interests, 2. Need for resources, 3. Opportune time, 4. Views of army officers, 5. Ultra-nationalism.

How did the Chinese government under Chiang Kai Shek affect Japan's interests in Manchuria?

Chiang declared treaties invalid and expelled Japanese from parts of China, threatening Japan's interests.

What resources in Manchuria were significant for Japan?

Manchuria was rich in coal and iron, which were crucial for Japan's self-sufficiency.

What was the impact of the Chinese Civil War on Japan's decision to invade Manchuria?

The civil war between the KMT and CCP presented an opportune time for Japan to invade.

What was the public sentiment in Japan regarding the invasion of Manchuria?

Public support for the invasion was high, fueled by nationalism and the desire for new trade opportunities.

What was the outcome of Japan's invasion of Manchuria on its government structure?

The invasion led to the fall of democracy in Japan and the establishment of a military dictatorship.

Who was appointed to lead the new National Unity Government in Japan after the invasion?

Admiral Mankato Sato was appointed to head the new National Unity Government.

What were Japan's actions regarding international agreements after the invasion of Manchuria?

Japan defied world agreements, including the League of Nations and the Washington Naval Conference.

What was the significance of the Lytton Report in 1932?

The Lytton Report stated that Manchuria should be returned to China, which Japan rejected.

What was the Marco Polo Bridge Incident?

It was a conflict where China mistook a Japanese military drill for an attack, leading to Japan's justification for a full invasion.

What were the consequences of the Second Sino-Japanese War for China?

Japan quickly took eastern China, but China survived due to its size and the alliance between KMT and CCP.

How did the international community respond to China's plight during the Second Sino-Japanese War?

China received little support as England was focused on fighting Nazis and the United States maintained isolationism.

What dilemma did Japan face as WWII broke out in Europe?

Japan had to decide what actions to take in response to the changing global landscape.

What dilemma did Japan face at the beginning of WWII?

Decisions about securing territories and potential further expansion.

What significant event in 1941 made Japan feel more secure?

Germany invaded the USSR.

Who was appointed as Prime Minister of Japan during WWII?

General Hideki Tojo.

What type of government was established under General Hideki Tojo?

A full-fledged military dictatorship.

What ideology did General Hideki Tojo follow?

Ultra-nationalism, characterized by state violence and mass killings.

What was the outcome of Japan's invasion of French Indochina in 1940?

It led to minor U.S. economic sanctions.

What did the U.S. do in response to Japan's actions in French Indochina?

Increased military presence in the Philippines and ended Japanese oil exports.

What was President Franklin D. Roosevelt's misjudgment regarding Japan?

He believed Japan was weaker and that economic sanctions would be enough to deter them.

What led to the breakdown of diplomacy between Japan and the U.S.?

Roosevelt demanded a stop to Japan's military buildup, which Tojo ignored.

What was the date of the attack on Pearl Harbor?

December 7, 1941.

What was the scale of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor?

Involved 6 aircraft carriers, 2 battleships, 2 cruisers, and 435 fighter planes.

What were the American losses during the Pearl Harbor attack?

2,402 men killed, 190 aircraft destroyed, and significant damage to ships.

Who led the attack on Pearl Harbor?

Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto.

What were the immediate effects of the Pearl Harbor attack for Japan?

Although it caused damage, major aircraft carriers escaped, and the Pacific fleet was not entirely destroyed.

What declaration did Germany make following the attack on Pearl Harbor?

Germany declared war on the United States.

What were some long-term effects of Japan's military dictatorship during WWII?

At war with a unified China, alliances with Hitler and Mussolini, and conflict with the United States.

What was one reason Japan believed attacking Pearl Harbor was necessary?

They believed it would immobilize the U.S. Pacific fleet.

What were the debates surrounding why Pearl Harbor was unprotected?

Some believed it was intentional by FDR, while others cited information delays.

What did Japan's invasion of French Indochina lead to in terms of U.S. actions?

It resulted in minor economic sanctions from the U.S.

What did Roosevelt demand from Japan in November 1941?

A stop to their military buildup.

What was the strategic significance of the attack on Pearl Harbor for Japan?

It aimed to prevent U.S. interference in further Japanese expansion.

What was the outcome of the attack on Pearl Harbor for the U.S. Navy?

Many ships did not sink due to shallow water, and the Pacific fleet was not entirely destroyed.

What was the perception of Japan's military capabilities by the U.S. prior to Pearl Harbor?

The U.S. underestimated Japan, believing they could not quickly take China.