Rise of Militarist Japan PDF

The rise of authoritarian regimes Case Study of Militarist Japan  Overview of Japan before 1912 Tokugawa Shogunate - power lay in the hands of the Shogunate (military government) ○ Led by the Shogun, the military leader of Japan ○ Emperor -...

The rise of authoritarian regimes Case Study of Militarist Japan  Overview of Japan before 1912 Tokugawa Shogunate - power lay in the hands of the Shogunate (military government) ○ Led by the Shogun, the military leader of Japan ○ Emperor - figurehead Japan was an an agrarian society where the majority of economic activity revolves around the cultivation of crops. Japan was isolated from the rest of the world, with very few foreigners allowed into the country.  Overview of Japan before 1912 Meiji Period, 1868-1912 By 1868, the Shogun lost his power and Emperor Meiji took control of the government. Era of modernisation with major political, economic and social changes → eventually led to the failure of democracy in Japan Meiji Restoration = Restoration of imperial rule under the Meiji emperor and the end of the feudal regime under the Tokugawa Shogunate Meiji emperor sought to strengthen Japan militarily and economically, through modernisation and industrialisation Meiji Emperor Mutsuhito  Overview of Japan before 1912 Action #1: Economic Modernisation Aim: Modernise itself to catch up with the West Rationale: ○ Did not want a repeat of its encounter with the United States 1850: US Navy sailed into Tokyo Bay and threatened to use force if Japan did not sign trade agreements ○ Did not want to suffer the same fate as China (Signed unfair treaties with gave Europeans access to Chinese treaty ports) ○ Treaty ports = ports that were forcefully opened to foreign trade Meiji government decided to send academics and other officials to Western nations to learn about governments, economies and armed forces.  Overview of Japan before 1912 Action #1: Economic Modernisation Actions taken to modernise itself: 1) Strengthen the country with a strong military ○ Principle of Fukoku Kyohei (Enrich the Country, Strengthen the Army) ○ Strengthen its economic foundations to build a strong military to defend against foreign invaders 2) Industrialisation ○ Use of Western technology to increase Japan’s production rapidly ○ Infrastructure (i.e. banking system and railroads) set up to support Japan’s production ○ Powerful and large corporations called zaibatsu were established 3) International Trade ○ Engaged in foreign trade and exported goods to the rest of the world  Overview of Japan before 1912 Action #2: Political Changes 1889 - Japan became a constitutional monarchy Japanese Emperor had to rule according to a set of laws Key Change: Although the Emperor retained a lot of power as the head of state, he had to share power with a government made up of different groups including the Genro, the democratically elected civilian politicians in the Diet and the military.  Overview of Japan before 1912 Note: Military had the power to veto any decisions made by the Cabinet Veto = to overturn or reject decisions made by a lawmaking body, such as the Cabinet in the government. Who held most of the power in Japan's political structure from the 1890s to the 1920s? What do you think is one key challenge that Japan may face in the future?  Overview of Japan before 1912 Action #3: Social Changes Japanese society began to change: Cities grew and many Japanese left the countryside ○ Tokyo’s population grew from 600,000 in 1873 to 2 million in 1913 Traditional values from the countryside came into conflict with modern values from the city The samurai (i.e. elite class) were replaced by the new national army and navy, made up of civilian conscripts  Overview of Japan before 1912 Action #3: Social Changes Educational changes Introduced western-style curriculum with vocational schools to support its industrialisation efforts Education emphasised ○ Loyalty to emperor, state, family and community ○ Nationalistic feelings Some of the ideas taught included: Japan was powerful because it was never colonised by Western powers Military should be praised for how it protected Japan from its enemies and its military successes during the First Sino-Japanese War and Russo-Japanese War Japan's economic modernisation in the early 1900s led to stability and unity  THINK An extract from a Japanese elementary school reading book, published in 1904. Lesson 7: Takeo Joins the Service Takeo: Father, the idea of “joining the service of my country” makes me so proud and happy. I’ll be trained and when war comes, I will not be afraid to die. I’ll give everything I have to show what a good Japanese fighting man is made of. Father: That’s the spirit! You must be that determined. Don’t be afraid to die. Don’t worry about us here. And you must always be faithful to the Imperial Precepts to Soldiers and Sailors. Why do you think such texts were printed for young Japanese to read?  THINK An extract from a Japanese elementary school reading book, published in 1904. Lesson 7: Takeo Joins the Service Takeo: Father, the idea of “joining the service of my country” makes me so proud and happy. I’ll be trained and when war comes, I will not be afraid to die. I’ll give everything I have to show what a good Japanese fighting man is made of. Father: That’s the spirit! You must be that determined. Don’t be afraid to die. Don’t worry about us here. And you must always be faithful to the Imperial Precepts to Soldiers and Sailors. Why do you think such texts were printed for young Japanese to read? This was to instil in young Japanese children pride in the military and their country, and to encourage them to support and participate in the military as they grew up. Such texts also built nationalist and patriotic pride in their country  THINK Explanation: How do you think citizens view the military after the economic, political and social changes? Economic ○ Modernisation and opening up Political ○ Emperor sharing power with government Social ○ Education system focusing on military might and achievements  Meiji Japan and the World, 1868-1912 Changes in foreign policy During the Meiji period, Japan engaged the world in the following ways: Japan’s economy expanded as it engaged in trade with the outside world Some Japanese leaders believed that Japan should become a more important player in international politics, especially in Asia. Many politicians, government officials and military leaders believed that it was important for Japan to control lands with natural resources in order to grow and strengthen its economy. They even thought that their country should build an empire like Britain. Japan was determined to become a more important player in international politics, and this was fuelled by its successes in various wars!  Meiji Japan and the World, 1868-1912 Japan’s successes in wars First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) ○ China’s forces were no match for the modern and well-trained Japanese army and navy. ○ With this victory, Japan increased its influence and control in Korea. ○ China also ceded Taiwan and the Liaodong Peninsula in Manchuria to Japan. Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) ○ First time an Asian power had defeated a major European power ○ Japan replaced Russia as the Key power in Manchuria Annexation of Korea (1910)  Meiji Japan and the World, 1868-1912 Japan’s successes in wars How did Japan’s successes in the wars with China and Russia influence its subsequent approach to its foreign policy?  Meiji Japan and the World, 1868-1912 Japan’s successes in wars How did Japan’s successes in the wars with China and Russia influence its subsequent approach to its foreign policy? It built the image of a modern and well-trained army that the Japanese could depend on. It convinced Japan that they were equals with the Western countries, since they could win Russia. It convinced Japan of the need to establish an empire like the Western countries, to be seen as being on par with Western countries.  Challenges for Japan, 1912-1932  End of Meiji era, Start of Taisho era In 1912, the Meiji period ended and the Taisho period started. The new Emperor Yoshihito, also known as Emperor Taisho, reigned from 1912 to 1926. Taisho Japan's government continued the political structure that was adopted during the Meiji period. However, Japan was not as politically stable as it was in the early 1900s. Emperor Taisho → sickly and unable to exercise authority Vs. Emperor Meiji → strong/capable and had the support of a strong Genro/Prime Ministers 1 Political Challenges What do you think are some challenges that Japan faced? 1) Military could make it difficult for the Prime Minister and Cabinet to act 2) Emperor had to be strong enough for the different parts of the government to come together and function well 3) Diet was made up of different political parties that might not work together 1 Political Challenges What do you think are some challenges that Japan faced? 1) Military could make it difficult for the Prime Minister and Cabinet to act ○ The military did have disproportionate influence over the Cabinet as every Cabinet must include a minister from the military. ○ The military could also refuse to join the Cabinet if they disagreed with the Prime Minister or Cabinet. ○ When that happened, the Cabinet could not be formed and therefore unable to uphold any decision. 1 Political Challenges What do you think are some challenges that Japan faced? 2) The Emperor had to be strong enough for the different parts of the government to come together and function well ○ The Emperor was the central figure and hence had to be the one controlling the military and politicians to balance each group's power. ○ He was the only one who could make the military and civilian politicians work together. ○ If emperor was weak, government is unable to function. 1 Political Challenges What do you think are some challenges that Japan faced? 3) The Diet was made up of different political parties that might not work together ○ Party rivalries and politics were rampant in the Diet, making it difficult for the Prime Minister to get the support of the majority. 1 Political Challenges Weaknesses of Emperor Taisho Sickly and unable to govern effectively or fully control the military. The Genro (i.e. respected statesmen that had advised the Emperor) had retired due to old age → could not support the Emperor to unify the government The government was divided between the civilian politicians and the military ○ Civilian politicians pursued an internationalist policy of diplomacy and trade, which the military opposed ○ Military resented Prime Ministers and Cabinets for cutting the military’s budget ○ Military began to act on their own! 1 Political Challenges An effective Japanese government needs: 1. A strong emperor that could exercise authority 2. Support of the military 3. Consensus between political parties 4. Military and civilian parties to accept each other Diet was a coalition government with multiple political parties The civilian politicians within the Cabinet and the Diet were also divided because of party politics and rivalry ○ Two rival political parties - Seiyukai and Minseito were wrestling for power and influence instead of supporting the PM All these weakened the authority of the Prime Minister, who was not able to gain the support of the majority.  1 Political Challenges THINK: Why was the military able to act on its own without consulting the PM?  1 Political Challenges THINK: Why was the military able to act on its own without consulting the PM? The Prime Minister did not have the authority to appoint/remove military leaders in the Cabinet (Only Emperor did) Military had veto powers Military could refuse to provide a minister to join the Cabinet because they did not agree with the Prime Minister or Cabinet being formed.  1 Political Challenges Explanation - How did the Japanese Military rise to power? Why did the democratic government fail? How did people perceive the government? How will it influence who they supported? Why was the military gaining influence in the government? 2 Economic Challenges Japan had a tendency to swing from periods of boom to periods of recession 2 Economic Challenges Who do you think the Japanese blamed for the economic problems? Some Japanese blamed the civilian government for not being able to improve their lives and resolve the economic hardships. Many believed that the civilian government was corrupt due to their close relations with the zaibatsu, which seemed to be prospering despite economic hardship in the 1930s. The Japanese would not blame the Emperor, because he was seen as divine and above all blame. They also did not blame the military due to their overseas victories.  2 Economic Challenges Divide between the city and countryside People living in cities benefited from: Access to cheaper and better goods Improved services and infrastructure (e.g. public schooling, electricity and lighting People living in countryside faced challenged such as: Insufficient land for farmers due to the large population growth in Japan Productivity of the farmers in the countryside had stagnated → technological advances in farming (i.e better tools and cultivation techniques) did not spread quickly in the countryside Tenant farmers struggled to survive as much of their harvest went towards paying the landlord, leaving them with barely enough to eat Those who owned farms only had small plots of land and were affected by poor harvests  2 Economic Challenges Explanation - How did the Japanese Military rise to power? Why did the people in the countryside hope for? How did people perceive the government? How will it influence who they supported?  3 Social tensions in Japanese Society Widening Rural-Urban Divide increased tensions Government supported the wealthy zaibatsu to strengthen Japan’s economy ○ Wealth was concentrated in the hands of the big businesses ○ In the countryside, the richest landlords, who made up about two to three per cent of the Japanese population, did not work on the farms themselves but lived on rent collected from tenant farmers. ○ These landlords lived in luxury and engaged in leisure activities, such as visiting hot spring inns. In contrast, the workers and peasants continued to live in poverty ○ Became increasingly unhappy → uprisings ○ E.g. Rice Riots of 1918, led by angry workers who were triggered by the sudden increase in the prices of commodities, especially rice, which is a staple food. Workers complaining about the divide  3 Social tensions in Japanese Society Changing Role of Women and Traditional-Modern Divide Traditionalists feared that Japan was losing its identity Changes in role of women - women were accused of serving their own interests instead of the needs of their families. In the 1920s, many young women were perceived to be abandoning their traditional roles in their families. ○ Many of them now had greater independence through A publicity photograph for a campaign group the wages earned from their jobs. which was fighting for equal rights for women in ○ Some also became active in politics the 1920s Seen by some as a threat to traditional Japanese society and values.  3 Social tensions in Japanese Society Explanation - How did the Japanese Military rise to power? Why did these social changes cause the Japanese to be more resentful towards the civilian government? What did the people hope for? Was the Japanese government able to address the problems? How will it influence who they supported? Change in Leadership (1926) In 1926, Emperor Yoshihito was succeeded by Emperor Hirohito, also referred to as Emperor Showa. Many of Japan’s political, economic and social problems continued to worsen during his reign. Financial crises, such as the banking crisis in 1927, led to increasing public resentment towards the civilian government. 4 Impact of the Banking Crisis of 1927 What do you think the people were intending to do? How did the Japanese feel about the situation then? Entrance of Japanese bank during banking crisis 4 Impact of the Banking Crisis of 1927 In the 1920s, Japan had many banks but This made the banks vulnerable. If the industries many of them were small. These banks were did not do well financially, the banks would have focused on a small number of borrowers difficulty collecting their loans. This was what whom they loaned large amounts of money happened after WWI. To make matters worse, the to. These borrowers tended to be from the new loans that most Japanese banks issued in same few industries. 1923 were to companies that were not stable. 4 Impact of the Banking Crisis of 1927 By 1927, there was widespread panic among the Japanese that the banks did not The collapse of the banks led to widespread have enough money due to bad debts. Japan suffering among the common people who lost then fell into a financial crisis as people tried their savings. to withdraw their deposits, leading to the collapse of over 20 banks. 4 Impact of the Banking Crisis of 1927 The Japanese government tried to deal with It seemed the crisis was over. All this was to the crisis by introducing new policies to change with the Wall Street Crash in October stabilise the banks. By early 1929, most 1929. banks were stable and making profits again. 4 Impact of the Banking Crisis of 1927 What were the effects of the banking crisis?  4 Impact of the Banking Crisis of 1927 Explanation - How did the Japanese Military rise to power? What was the impact of the Banking crisis? Overall, the banking crisis made the Japanese think that the government was weak and unable to solve their economic problems. In addition, the good relations between the government and the zaibatsu convinced many that the government was corrupt and unfairly favouring the zaibatsu. What did the people hope for? Was the Japanese government able to address the problems? How will it influence who they supported? 5 Impact of the Great Depression The Great Depression occurred after the Wall Street Crash of October 1929. Demand for Japanese exports, in particular its main export, silk, fell drastically. This caused Japan’s economy to fall by 20 per cent between 1929 and 1931. Public resentment towards the civilian government grew as a result of the impact from the Great Depression. 5 Impact of the Great Depression Impact on Farmers Lesser exports → lesser income → lesser demand for farmers’ produce Income of farmers fell by an average of 43% between 1929 and 1931 Tenant farmers tried to get landowners to reduce rent BUT landowners disagreed! ○ Landowners tried to evict tenant farmers who could not pay rent Response: Tenant farmers organised themselves into unions → Why? ○ Held protest meetings ○ Took landowners to court How did the farmers view the government? 5 Impact of the Great Depression Impact on Small Business Owners Lesser exports → lesser income → lesser demand for products Owners of small businesses struggled to attract customers ○ In 1930, twice as many businesses closed down Response: Business owners joined protest movements led by the Imperial Middle Class Federated Alliance ○ Alliance claimed that the political parties were looking after the landowners, banks and zaibatsu. → How did the businesses feel? How did the small business owners view the government? 5 Impact of the Great Depression Unemployment Businesses collapsed → Mass unemployment ○ 15-20% of Japan’s workforce lost their jobs between 1930 and 1932 ○ Dismissed workers only entitled to 14 days’ pay Response: Protested, violently at times, against employers from the elite classes How did the locals view the government? Handbill of Japan Masses’ call - “Say No to Unemployment!” 5 Impact of the Great Depression Fear of Communism Workers were attracted to messaged by communist agitators calling for a revolution Japanese Communist party was too small and never took root in Japan However, government did fear the threat of communism as USSR was geographically close to Japan and shared borders with Japanese territories in Korea and Manchuria How did the locals view the government? Poster of the Japanese Communist Party in the 1930s “The main reason for the failure of Japan’s democracy was its structural weaknesses”. How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. Growing distrust in the government The people felt that the government cared about the well-being of the elites and wealthy but were neglecting the poor during this crisis. They believed that the civilian politicians were corrupt in their dealings with the zaibatsu. This made many increasingly suspicious of the intentions of the government. Many Japanese believed that the government were corrupt and only cared about the elites such as the banks, landowners and zaibatsu, because they were receiving money or benefits from them. Public perception of the civilian government had declined as they increasingly lost trust in the integrity and capability of the civilian government. Rise of Military Influence in the Government 1 Discontent from the Military Lack of trust in the civilian government Negative perception of civilian government ○ Corrupt → Supported the wealthy zaibatsu at the expense of the country's needs. ○ Incapable of improving the economic conditions that the people faced in the 1920s ○ Civilian government no longer respected the military due to the cuts in military budget → angered the military In contrast, the military was gaining prominence and popularity with its victories. 2 London Naval Conference, 1930 1922 Washington Naval Conference Conference aimed at reducing the naval forces of major powers (USA, Britain, Japan, France and Italy) Japan received unfavourable naval ratio compared to USA and Britain: ○ America (5) : Britain (5): Japan (3): France (1.75) and Italy (1.75) Reactions in Japan ○ After the conference, the civilian government retrenched naval officers and scrapped warships. ○ Military felt that the civilian leaders had let them down Why was the military angry at the civilian government? 2 London Naval Conference, 1930 1922 Washington Naval Conference Conference aimed at reducing the naval forces of major powers (USA, Britain, Japan, France and Italy) Japan received unfavourable naval ratio compared to USA and Britain: ○ America (5) : Britain (5): Japan (3): France (1.75) and Italy (1.75) Reactions in Japan ○ After the conference, the civilian government retrenched naval officers and scrapped warships. ○ Military felt that the civilian leaders had let them down Why was the military angry at the civilian government? Reduction of Japan’s naval strength seen to be unfair and biased against them → Angered and want to prove that Japan was stronger 2 London Naval Conference, 1930 However, in 1930, the countries met again to review the treaty Japan’s demands to build more warships were rejected by the Western powers Japan was forced to back down and sign the London Naval Treaty of 1930 ○ America (10) : Britain (10): Japan (7) Ministers in the Cabinet who refused to agree to the terms of the treaty were removed from their positions. Reactions in Japan ○ Navy commanders did not think that the newly agreed ratio for warship tonnage was an improvement ○ Japanese press presented the agreement as a betrayal by the civilian government  2 London Naval Conference, 1930 Explanation - How did the Japanese Military rise to power? How did the Japanese view the signing of the treaty? How will this affect the way they viewed the government? Form of weakness → lose trust in the government What did the people hope for? How will it influence who they supported? 3 Japan’s interest and invasion of Manchuria Why Manchuria? Manchuria was economically important as: ○ Rich in natural resources → Good source of natural materials (i.e. iron and coal) for Japan’s growing industries ○ Lucrative market to sell Japan’s exports Manchuria was strategically important as: ○ Defend interests in Korea ○ Buffer state against Russia ○ Strong position to invade China in the future 3 Japan’s interest and invasion of Manchuria Assassination of Zhang Zuolin, 1928 Manchuria was ruled by the warlord, Zhang Zuolin. He had developed friendly relations with Japan and the Kwantung Army. However, over the years, Zhang’s inability to defend Japan’s interests in Manchuria would make the Kwantung Army increasingly frustrated with him. In 1928, the Kwantung Army assassinated Zhang in an attempt to replace him with a new and more cooperative leader. 3 Japan’s interest and invasion of Manchuria An adapted quote about General Ugaki Kazushige in 1931. Ugaki was a senior army officer but he also served in the government as Minister for War from 1927 to 1931. As the depression deepened in 1930–1931, Ugaki came to believe that Japan faced a crisis at the deepest level. He condemned the violence of left-wing and right-wing radicals. However, like these radicals, he blamed Japan’s weakness and disorder on capitalism and democracy which have lost control. He feared that Japanese society would soon be split into a few rich corporations facing a mass of impoverished workers. Looking overseas, he was also concerned. He wrote that the world trading system was breaking down, and free competition was no longer possible. Thus he argued that a more aggressive foreign policy would give Japan the resources it needs, the markets to sell their goods, increase productivity, reduce unemployment and prevent social tragedy. Based on the source, what were some of the beliefs that the Japanese society had at this time?  3 Japan’s interest and invasion of Manchuria Mukden Incident, 1931 A bomb exploded on the Japanese-owned Manchurian Railway track in Mukden Japanese Army accused the Chinese government of sabotage, and demanded the Japanese government to take action to protect Japanese interests in Manchuria Created the opportunity for a military invasion of Manchuria Manchurian Railway Track where the bomb exploded  3 Japan’s interest and invasion of Manchuria Mukden Incident, 1931 In retaliation, the Kwantung Army stationed in Manchuria marched into Manchurian cities ‘Excuse’ for invasion: Defend Japan’s interests in Manchuria China was too preoccupied with its civil war to resist the attack. Japanese army established the satellite state called Manchukuo with the last Qing emperor, Pu Yi, installed as its puppet ruler. Kwantung army acted independently of the Japanese Kwantung Army marched into Manchurian Government. PM Ki Inukai protested against the invasion but cities was powerless to do anything. 3 Japan’s interest and invasion of Manchuria Public reaction in Japan Japanese citizens saw Manchuria as a solution to Japan’s problems and supported the invasion. They believed that control over manchuria would improve Japan’s life, enable them to be self-sufficient and defend Japan’s interests. The victory was celebrated through songs, plays, newsreels and radio broadcasts. Japanese press turned public opinion in favour of the invasion.  3 Japan’s interest and invasion of Manchuria Explanation - How did the Japanese Military rise to power? How did the Japanese view the invasion of Manchuria? How will this affect the way they viewed the government? Civilian government was losing control of the military as unable to stop or correct the Kwantung Army for their actions. What did the people hope for? How will it influence who they supported? 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government Back in Japan, a network of ultra-nationalistic and anti-democratic activists began to form and grow. ○ This network of ultranationalist groups included junior military officers who likely had the secret backing of senior military commanders. ○ They were against the civilian political leaders and the zaibatsu, whom they regarded as self-serving. One group was the Showa Restoration Faction. It wanted to remove all aspects of democratic government and restore direct rule to the Emperor. 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government Assassinations These ultranationalist groups assassinated or attempted to assassinate many key figures in the government and zaibatsu. 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government Let’s think: What motivated the assassinations of important leaders in the 1930s? How did these assassinations affect Japan? 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government Let’s think: What motivated the assassinations of important leaders in the 1930s? Ultranationalistic and anti-democratic views in Japan gained traction in Japan. Many, including military officers, wanted to remove the democratic government and restore all authority to the Emperor. How did these assassinations affect Japan? Intimidated the civilian politicians 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government May 15 Incident, 1932 These assassinations culminated in the May 15 incident also known as the League of Blood incident. On 15 May 1932, the League of Blood assassinated Prime Minister Inukai Tsuyoshi, attacked the Mitsubishi Bank, the Seiyukai headquarters and several power stations, and tried to assassinate several other government officials. It was an attempted coup d’état. ○ Why PM Inukai? He had opposed the actions of the military in Manchuria and did not give official government acceptance of the state of Manchukuo. They had hoped that the people would rise up to support them and overthrow Japan’s democratic government. However, the people did not rise up. The assassins were arrested and put on trial. 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government Statement of the military commanders in 1932. The fundamental causes of acts of rebellion and assassinations are political, economic and social problems. If we are to try to restrain our young officers and patriots, a thorough renovation of our country and its government are needed if we are to restore our country and bring stability Based on the source, did the military condemn the May 15 incident? The military commanders did not condemn the actions of the officers during the May 15 incident and even excused the officers for their actions. They claimed that these acts of rebellions and assassinations reflected the political, economic and social problems in Japan, and could only be resolved if the government made the necessary reforms. The trials also became the platforms for these ultranationalists to spread their ideas with the public. Many in the public also showed their support for the assassins as they believed that the latter were carrying out a righteous cause. 4 Growing opposition to the civilian government Aftermath of the May 15 Incident, 1932 Military wanted control of the government and prevented the formation of a civilian-majority government ○ So who had more power and influence in the country? 26 May 1932 ○ Emperor appointed a navy admiral as Japan’s new Prime Minister. Why do you think the Emperor appointed the Admiral? ○ His Cabinet had 15 members, of whom just five were elected civilian party representatives. ○ The remaining 10 were military officers and government officials. With the majority of the Cabinet made up of military officers, Japan now came under militarist rule.  Political Appeal of Weaknesses of Economic Social ultranationalist the Civilian challenges developments faction Government Which factor is the most important/significant in leading to the rise of the Japanese Military government? Japan under Militarist Rule Political, Economic and Social Impacts 1a Political Impact - Consolidation of Military Power Increased Military Influence By 1934, the military had strengthened their influence within the government because: Military officers could now take positions in the civil service, originally reserved for non-military or civilian politicians. This led to more influence over the government. The foreign affairs ministry handed over the supervision of Manchuria to the military. The civilian politicians could not stop the dominance of the military in the government as they were too divided by party differences. Military had the increasing support of the Japanese people. Successes of the military (i.e. Manchuria) was a source of national pride. This emboldened the military to intervene in politics and oppose civilian politicians. Over time, the military was able to establish its influence in the government. 1a Political Impact - Consolidation of Military Power Increased Military Influence By 1935, the militarist government took action to control political life. How was this achieved? Government carried out a campaign of “electoral purification” to remove corrupt practices in the government. ○ It was aimed at individuals and groups who held views which the militarist government did not find acceptable (i.e. socialism and communism) ○ Military could not take action to control politics in Japan and removed elements that opposed their military beliefs. Political parties became less important and fewer Japanese bothered to vote. Lesser opposition to military rule. 1b Political Impact - Consolidation of Military Power Emergence of the Control Faction in the Japanese Government While the military was getting strong, it was not united. ○ Division between the Imperial Way Faction and the Control Faction. ○ This feud between the two factions was bitter and a turning point in their relationship was the February 26 Incident in 1936. February 26 Incident in 1936 ○ Young officers in the Imperial Way Faction led a military coup to assassinate key government leaders and demand a new government. ○ Called for a Showa Restoration - restore Japan’s glory by honouring the Showa Emperor, defending the empire and improving life for ordinary people. ○ Coup failed and the Emperor condemned their actions 19 leading figures in the Imperial Way Faction were arrested, tried in a secret military court and executed. 1b Political Impact - Consolidation of Military Power Emergence of the Control Faction in the Japanese Government Impact of the failure of the February 26 Incident in 1936 ○ Imperial Way Faction lose its influence within the army ○ Control Faction had the opportunity to seize control of the military and restore its discipline ○ Military had sufficient influence to appoint an active general as the Minister for War, who in the past would have been a non-military person. ○ With a strong grip over the government, the Control Faction began to prepare for war by further modernising the Japanese military. 1b Political Impact - Consolidation of Military Power Imperial Way troops marching on the police barracks in Tokyo in the attempted coup of February 1936 1c Political Impact - Consolidation of Military Power Loss of Political Power for Civilian Politicians Growing influence of the military caused the civilian politicians' power to diminish. The Japanese people supported the military officers and their expansionist plans. July 1937 - Prince Konoe Fumimaro was appointed as Prime Minister. ○ In the same month that he was appointed, the military led an invasion into China. October 1937 - he also permitted the formation of a Cabinet Planning Office made up of mostly military officers. ○ Japan's finances was now controlled by a military officer rather than a civilian politician. October 1941 - the army minister, General Tojo Hideki, took over the role of the Prime Minister. ○ This signalled the military's total control over the Japanese government.  1 Political Impact - Consolidation of Military Power Explanation - How did the actions allow the military to establish greater control? How did the 26 February 1936 Military coup increase the military’s power and control? Who had more decision-making power in Japan? How will it allow them to increase their influence? Did the actions benefit Japanese society? How will it impact their lives?  2a Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Japan’s Industrialisation Study the following graph that shows the performance of Japan’s economy from 1920 to 1940. Do note that the gross domestic product (GDP) refers to the value of the country’s economy. How is Japan’s economic growth changing? Who do you think is the driving force behind the changes?  2a Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Japan’s Industrialisation Study the following graph that shows the performance of Japan’s economy from 1920 to 1940. Do note that the gross domestic product (GDP) refers to the value of the country’s economy. Under the militarist government, measures were put in place to strengthen the economy and tighten its control. This enabled Japan's economy to improve, especially after 1932. Its economic recovery in the 1930s was far quicker than those of the Western powers. 2a Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Japan’s Industrialisation What were the features of Japan’s industrialising economy in the 1930s? Industrialisation efforts ○ New emphasis on expanding its empire and preparing for war ○ Shifted from developing consumer industries to heavy industries and chemical production ○ Production of arms and big construction projects (i.e. roads, railways and bridges) Increased spending to stimulate Japan’s economy ○ More money set aside for heavy industries, expanding the manufacturing industries and strengthening Japan’s economy 2a Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Japan’s Industrialisation What were the features of Japan’s industrialising economy in the 1930s? Rise of “New Zaibatsus” ○ Like the earlier zaibatsu, these were large business corporations, which made huge profits from government contracts in chemicals, construction and related areas. ○ E.g. Nissan, Nichitsi and Mori, which at that time were closely linked to and influenced by the military. ○ Key role in developing Japan's empire economically and exploiting the resources in Korea and Manchuria. ○ The military hoped that this would enable Japan to develop into a self-sufficient and industrially strong state. 2b Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Increased control over Japan’s Industry, especially the Zaibatsu The government believed that competition between the zaibatsu was wasteful, and feared that they would seek to make profits, sometimes at the expense of the country. ○ For example, they might choose not to build a railway because it was unprofitable, even though it would have improved Japan's transport network. To manage the zaibatsu, the government passed the Principal Industries Control Law in 1931.  2b Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Increased control over Japan’s Industry, especially the Zaibatsu Intended Legal to form cartels that would control prices and production across the various zaibatsus as outcome to limit competition and regulate the production and prices of the products they sold Cartels were set up in Japan’s heavy industries (e.g. ship building, electric power, textiles and coal mining) The zaibatsu chiefs would manage these cartels. Actual The government became more directly involved in the cartels and even controlled the cartels outcome (for example, in 1936, the officials and military commanders in the Cabinet brought the electric power industry under direct government control). The zaibatsu chiefs were furious at this law - Why? How will it affect them? In 1937, the government introduced the Five-Year Plans setting targets for production in various industries. 2c Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Control over Labour Unions In the 1920s, the government had encouraged the formation of labour unions as it could bring stability to the country. However, by 1936, the militarist government had a different attitude towards labour unions. ○ It no longer favoured unions and forced thousand of workers to withdraw from the union of government employees. THINK: Do you think the Japanese people welcomed the militarist government’s control of labour unions? 2c Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Control over Labour Unions In the 1920s, the government had encouraged the formation of labour unions as it could bring stability to the country. However, by 1936, the militarist government had a different attitude towards labour unions. ○ It no longer favoured unions and forced thousand of workers to withdraw from the union of government employees. THINK: Do you think the Japanese people welcomed the militarist government’s control of labour unions? ○ The Japanese would not welcome the military government's control of the labour unions. ○ By controlling the labour unions, the militarist government was removing the ability of workers to express their discontent or advocate for change and improvement. This means they probably had little choice but to abide by the rules set out by their employers. 2d Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Improving conditions in Japan’s countryside Impact of the Great Depression ○ The Great Depression hit Japanese farming and farmers hard. ○ By 1932, many farmers were heavily in debt. They struggled to pay their rent, taxes, and feed their families. To address this, the government introduced a range of measures to help farmers pay off their debts. ○ For example, the government increased public works in the countryside to provide jobs for people living there. 2d Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Improving conditions in Japan’s countryside In 1932, the Ministry of Agriculture launched the Campaign for Economic Revitalisation. However, conditions did not improve significantly as the government was more focused on industrialisation.  2 Economic Impact - Changes to Japan’s Economy Explanation - How did the actions allow the military to establish greater control? How did the actions increase the military’s power and control? Who had more decision-making power in Japan? Did the actions benefit Japanese society? How will it impact their lives? 3a Social Impact - Changes to Japan’s society Control of Japanese Thought The government took action to promote loyalty to the state and the Emperor, and cultivate a strong military spirit. Action #1: Campaign for Economic Revitalisation emphasised the traditional values seen in the lives of the peasants in rural Japan. ○ Contrasted the peaceful, hardworking rural peasant communities with the chaotic and corrupting influence of the cities ○ The campaign also praised women in rural Japan for their traditional roles in working on the farm and managing the home. How will this action influence the minds of the Japanese people? 3a Social Impact - Changes to Japan’s society Control of Japanese Thought Government searched for strategies to manage workers and increase productivity. Action #2: In 1937, the government implemented a network of “discussion councils” in all workplaces. Councils made up of worker and manager representatives ○ Aim: Cooperate to prevent conflicts in the workplaces ○ Workers were told that companies were like families, where every member was equally valuable before the Emperor. How will this action influence the minds of the Japanese people? 3a Social Impact - Changes to Japan’s society Control of Japanese Thought Government needed to win the hearts and minds of the Japanese people. Hence, it decided to censors ideas that did not conform with the government’s beliefs or were seen as threats to Japanese national identity. Action #3: Publications Monitoring Department published guidelines for all publishing companies and scrutinised all media, including fictional books. ○ In 1936, the government also formed the Information and Propaganda Committee. Worked with the Publications Monitoring Department to further control the media and promote their militarist ideas. Materials that presented the military or Emperor in a bad light were considered inappropriate and censored. How will this action influence the minds of the Japanese people? 3a Social Impact - Changes to Japan’s society Control of Japanese Thought Action #4: Setting up a special police force that censored individuals ○ Individuals promoting ideas that did not conform with the government were silenced Imprisoned by a special police force in Japan In the Japanese empire, Kempeitai carried this out ○ Individuals with socialist beliefs, such as political leaders, intellectuals and university students, were imprisoned or dismissed from their positions. How will this action influence the minds of the Japanese people? 3b Social Impact - Changes to Japan’s society Control of Education Japan's education system already had a strong emphasis on national pride and the importance of Japanese traditions. It also stressed Shinto beliefs, loyalty to the Emperor and the community over the individual. The government continued to strengthen their control of Japan through education. Action #1: In 1937, the Ministry of Education published a document called Fundamentals of Our National Policy (Kokutai no Hongi) and used it as a basis for Japan's education system. ○ This document was distributed to the officials and educators ○ Intended to guide teachers in inculcating Japanese traditional ethics in their students Aim of the Japanese Curriculum: instil a sense of patriotism in young Japanese, and was centred on ultranationalist and militarist ideals ○ It also contained large amounts of physical exercise, military-style drilling and technical lessons designed to prepare the youths for war ○ Emphasises Japanese identity and culture as the core of the nation 3b Social Impact - Changes to Japan’s society Control of Education Adapted extracts from Fundamentals of Our National Polity, 1937. Introduction The various ideological and social evils of present-day Japan are the result of ignoring the fundamental and running after the trivial. So many aspects of European and American culture, systems, and learning have been imported and too rapidly. Individualism has led to confusion and crisis. Our Mission Our present mission as a people is to construct a new Japanese culture by adopting such Western cultures as we see fit but always making these ideas secondary to our national polity and identity. Imagine you are a student in Japan. How would this affect your view of Japan and the world?  3 Social Impact - Changes to Japan’s society Explanation - How did the actions allow the military to establish greater control? How did the actions increase the military’s power and control? Did the actions benefit Japanese society? How will it impact their lives? Conclusion In this chapter you learnt that by the mid 1930s, Japan had come under an authoritarian rule with the military completely in control of the government. It tightened its control over Japan's politics, economy and society. National pride was championed through military successes and education. This pride would embolden the military to pursue expansionist policies, despite increasing international pressure from the West. All of these would set the stage for Japan's role in the outbreak of WWII in the Asia-Pacific.