Detailed Summary of the Meiji Restoration
The Meiji Restoration was a pivotal period in Japanese history that began with internal discontent and external pressure for trade and diplomatic relations, catalyzed by Commodore Matthew Perry's arrival in 1853. Japan's decision to sign a treaty with the USA in 1854 opened its ports to Western trade, shifting the political landscape. Previously, the emperor had minimal power, but the events surrounding Perry’s visit revitalized the emperor's authority, leading to the overthrow of the shogunate in 1868 and the declaration of Tokyo as the new capital.
Noticing European empires expanding overseas, Japanese leaders feared subjugation to colonial powers, like what occurred in India and China. They adopted the slogan ‘fukoku kyohei’ (rich country, strong army) to stipulate a national agenda focused on economic development and military strength. Scholars emphasized learning from Western nations, balancing modernization with national identity and tradition.
To support these efforts, the emperor system was established, positioning the emperor as both a national figure and a symbol of modernization. Education reforms began in the 1870s, placing emphasis on loyalty, moral culture, and Japanese history while providing compulsory schooling, which was nearly universal by 1910.
Japan also developed new administrative structures, making revenue-generating units for local schools and military recruitment. While the army and bureaucracy operated under the emperor's command, tensions grew between a desire for military expansion and democratic reforms, leading to successful wars against China and Russia and the eventual establishment of a colonial empire. This conflict between democratic ideals and imperialistic governance would shape Japan’s trajectory well into the 20th century.