Japanese Empire Notes

Historical Background

• The Tokugawa period (1603-1867) saw Japan isolated from Western influence.
• Japanese society was structured into four classes: samurai, artisans, farmers, and merchants.
• The Perry Expedition (1853-1854) led to the opening of Japan to the world.
• The Iwakura Mission (1871-1873) studied Western systems to facilitate modernization.

Meiji Restoration and Modernisation

• The Meiji Restoration in 1868 ended the Tokugawa shogunate and restored imperial rule.
• Reforms included abolishing feudalism and modernizing Japan to avoid colonization.
• The Charter Oath (1868) outlined the new government's goals.
• The Meiji Constitution was drafted in 1881 and promulgated eight years later, defining roles and responsibilities.

Eras of the Japanese Empire

Meiji Era (1868–1912)

• Japan transformed from a feudal state to an industrialized nation-state.
• Significant changes occurred in social structure, politics, economy and foreign relations.
• Investments were made in railways, shipping lines, and communication networks.
• The First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) and Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) solidified Japan's status as a major power.

Taishō Era (1912–1926)

• Continued modernization and internal reforms.
• Democratic ideas grew, leading to increased political participation and civil freedoms.
• Japan joined the Allied Powers in World War I and expanded its influence in Asia-Pacific.