Japan has been a major player in global politics and economics since the late 19th century. Its rise to prominence has been remarkable, and its ascendancy as a regional and global power has been nothing short of remarkable. The ascendancy of Japan began in the late 19th century, when it began to modernize and industrialize. The Meiji period marked a period of rapid modernization, with the introduction of new technology, increased economic growth, and the adoption of a more western–style government and economic system. The military was also modernized, and Japan was able to successfully defeat China in the Sino–Japanese War of 1894–95.
In the early 20th century, Japan became a major power in the Pacific region. It defeated Russia in the Russo–Japanese War of 1904–05, and became a major player in the region. It also took part in World War I, and was an important part of the Allied war effort. After the war, Japan became a signatory of the Treaty of Versailles, and was granted a permanent seat on the League of Nations Council, giving it a level of international recognition it had not previously enjoyed.
The period of the 1920s and 1930s saw Japan increasingly assert its military and political power. It invaded Manchuria in 1931, leading to a full–scale invasion of China in 1937. During World War II, Japan invaded a number of countries in Asia, and was a major participant in the war. Japan was defeated by the Allies in 1945, and was occupied by the United States until 1952.
In the post–war period, Japan experienced a period of remarkable economic growth. It developed a number of major industries, such as automobiles and electronics, and became one of the world‘s largest economies. It also developed strong diplomatic relations with a number of countries, and joined the United Nations in 1956. In the late 20th century, Japan became a major global economic power, and is now one of the world‘s most developed countries.
The ascendancy of Japan has been an important part of modern history, and its rise to power has been remarkable. It has had a major impact on the world, and its influence continues to be felt today.
History of Japan: Revised Edition
