Japan (1750-1914): Tokugawa Shogunate

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following factors contributed most significantly to the economic hardship faced by the samurai class during the late Tokugawa period?

The fixed income based on rice stipends diminished in value due to inflation and economic stagnation. (correct)
Increased opportunities for samurai to engage in trade and commerce eroded their traditional values.
The shift in economic focus from rice to manufacturing drastically reduced the demand for samurai skills.
The samurai class were forced to sell of their land as a result of the increased taxation policies implemented by the Tokugawa Shogunate.

What was the primary motivation behind the Meiji government's decision to implement state-led industrialization?

To create a completely socialist economy that would equally benefit all citizens.
To promote free market capitalism without government intervention.
To maintain the traditional class structure and prevent social mobility.
To rapidly modernize Japan and strengthen its military to resist Western imperialism. (correct)

How did the arrival of Commodore Perry impact Japan's foreign policy during the late Tokugawa period?

It reinforced the shogunate's commitment to isolationism by highlighting the dangers of foreign contact.
It led to the immediate adoption of Western political systems and democratic reforms.
It prompted Japan to open its ports to trade with the U.S., exposing its military weakness and leading to unequal treaties. (correct)
It strengthened the Tokugawa Shogunate's authority and stability by demonstrating its ability to negotiate with foreign powers.

Which of the following best describes the political system established by the Meiji Constitution of 1889?

A constitutional monarchy with a Diet (parliament), granting limited suffrage and significant power to the emperor. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of the 'sakoku' policy implemented by the Tokugawa Shogunate?

To limit foreign influence, maintain social stability, and preserve the existing power structure. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the abolition of the feudal domains and the creation of prefectures impact Japan's political structure?

It centralized power under the Meiji government by replacing feudal domains with centrally controlled prefectures. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the attitude of Japanese intellectuals toward the Tokugawa Shogunate's isolationist policy in the late Tokugawa period?

They increasingly questioned the policy's effectiveness in addressing internal problems and advocated for opening up to the world. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which social class was at the bottom of the Tokugawa Shogunate's rigid class system?

Merchants (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of the zaibatsu in Japan's modernization during the Meiji Restoration?

They were large industrial conglomerates with close ties to the government. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Meiji government reform the education system in Japan?

By adopting a Western-style education system with an emphasis on technical training. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance of 1902?

It secured British recognition of Japan's interests in East Asia. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a major social change that occurred during the Meiji Restoration?

The abolition of the feudal class system and the declaration of equality under the law. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary goal of Japan's military modernization during the Meiji period?

To establish Japan as a major power in East Asia. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the state of Shinto during the Meiji Restoration?

It was promoted as the state religion to foster national unity. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did land reform contribute to Japan's modernization during the Meiji Restoration?

By eliminating feudal land ownership and allowing for private land ownership, boosting agricultural productivity. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant continuity in Japanese society despite the rapid modernization of the Meiji Restoration?

The emphasis on social hierarchy and duty, albeit in modified forms. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following events solidified Japan's position as a major world power after the Meiji Restoration?

The Russo-Japanese War. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the foreign policy pursued by Japan after the Meiji Restoration?

A combination of diplomatic efforts to revise unequal treaties and military expansion. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Tokugawa Shogunate

Feudal military government ruling Japan.

Sakoku

Policy of strict isolation, limiting foreign contact.