Meiji Restoration Notes

Unit 2: From Isolation to Adaptation

The Meiji Restoration (1868-1912): The Modernization of Japan

Essential Questions:

  • What motivated the radical changes in Japan's organization during the Meiji period?
  • How did Japan adapt to changes from feudal to modern organization?
  • How did these changes affect Japan economically, politically, and socially during the Meiji period?
  • How did changes in the Edo period (isolation) compare to changes in the Meiji period (adaptation)?
  • What challenges did the Japanese face in maintaining their culture during rapid change?

Emperor Meiji

  • Prince Mutsuhito became the Emperor of Japan.
  • Mutsuhito chose the name "Meiji," meaning "enlightened rule."
  • The period from 1868, when Emperor Meiji ascended the throne, is known as the "Meiji Restoration."
  • The emperor was "restored" to his position as head of Japan.
  • The young emperor served as a symbol of unity.
  • The Japanese Creation Myth reinforced reverence for the emperor.
  • The emperor was believed to be a descendant of Amaterasu.

New Ideas About Government

  • The emperor did not rule directly.
  • The samurai who helped defeat the shogun became Meiji's advisors; this oligarchy ruled in his name.
  • Japan recognized the need to change to prevent Western powers from taking over.
  • The motto was: "Enrich the country; strengthen the military."

Goals of the Meiji Government

  1. Create a strong and effective central government to unite the country.
  2. Establish a form of government closer to Western democracies and renegotiate unequal treaties.
  3. Modernize Japan and grow the economy.

The Emperor Takes Action

  • The imperial court moved from Kyoto to Tokyo (formerly Edo).
  • This put the emperor and government in the same location.
  • In 1868, Emperor Meiji signed the Charter Oath, outlining the goals of the new government.