1. Introduction
Japan’s transformation into a Westernized nation began in the mid-19th century, following a period of isolationism and feudal rule. The Meiji Restoration of 1868 marked the beginning of a new era for Japan, as it opened its doors to foreign influences and sought to modernize its economy and society. During this period, Japan adopted many aspects of Western culture, including technology, education systems, legal systems and more. This article will explore the history of Japan’s Westernization, from the Meiji Restoration to the present day.
2. Historical Context of Japan’s Westernization
Before Japan began to westernize in the 19th century, it was an isolated nation that had been ruled by shoguns since 1192. During this period, known as the Edo Period (1603-1867), Japanese society was highly stratified and closed off from foreign influence. In 1853, US Commodore Matthew Perry arrived in Tokyo Bay with four warships demanding that Japan open its ports to foreign trade. This event marked a turning point in Japanese history and set in motion a series of events that would lead to the country’s modernization and westernization.
3. Meiji Restoration and the Beginnings of Westernization
The Meiji Restoration of 1868 saw Emperor Meiji take control of Japan after centuries of shogun rule. In an effort to modernize their country, Emperor Meiji and his government adopted many aspects of Western culture and technology while also preserving traditional values and customs. The government also established diplomatic relations with other countries, allowing for increased trade with foreign nations such as Britain, France and Germany. These reforms helped lay the groundwork for Japan’s eventual transformation into a westernized nation.
4. The Impact of Commodore Perry’s Arrival in Japan
The arrival of Commodore Perry in Tokyo Bay had a major impact on Japanese society during this time period. His visit forced Japanese leaders to recognize that their country was behind other nations in terms of technology and economic development, leading them to seek out ways to modernize their country through increased contact with foreign nations. As part of these efforts, they adopted many aspects of Western culture such as fashion trends, legal systems and educational institutions modeled after those found in Europe or America at the time.
5. The Establishment of a Constitutional Monarchy in Japan
In 1889 Emperor Meiji established a constitutional monarchy based on European models such as those found in Britain or Germany at the time. This new system allowed for greater freedom within Japanese society while also introducing concepts such as parliamentary democracy which were previously unknown within Japanese culture before this point in time.. This move towards modernity helped pave the way for further changes within Japanese society as it continued its journey towards becoming fully westernized over time..
6. The Emergence of a Western-Style Education System in Japan
In order to facilitate this process even further,the government introduced various reforms designed to create an education system modeled after those found throughout Europe or America at that time.This included introducing compulsory education,establishing universities modeled after American or European institutions,and creating curriculums focused on teaching students about topics related to science,technology,and other areas related to modernization.These efforts helped create an educated population capable enough to help build up their country even further.
7. The Development of an Industrialized Economy in Japan
The introduction of industrialization into Japanese economy during this period was another major factor contributing towards its eventual westernization.This included establishing factories producing goods such as textiles,steel,chemicals,and ships which could be sold both domestically or exported abroad.These developments helped spur economic growth throughout the country while also introducing concepts related to capitalism which had previously been unknown within traditional Japanese culture before this point.
8 Conclusion
In conclusion,Japan’s journey towards becoming fully westernized began during the mid-19th century following centuries isolationism under shogun rule.This process involved adopting various aspects from different cultures throughout Europe or America while still preserving certain elements from traditional Japanese culture.The introduction reforms such as establishing constitutional monarchy,creating educational system modeled after those found abroad,and developing industrialized economy all played major roles helping shape what is now known today as modern day Japan.
9 References h 2 >
1) Brownlee J., “Meiji Period (1868–1912)” Encyclopedia Britannica https://www/britannica/com/event/Meiji-period (accessed April 15 2021).
2) Kallen H., “Westernization: A Historical Survey” Social Education Vol 77 No 5 pp 284 – 288 https://www/jstor/org/stable/27829087 (accessed April 15 2021).
3) Matsuo K., “The Impact Of Commodore Perry On Modernizing And Opening Up Of Imperialist Japan” International Journal Of Humanities & Social Science Studies Vol 4 No 1 pp 14 – 22 https://www/ijhrss/org/vol4_no1_July_2018/4_IJHRSS_July_2018_14_22pdf (accessed April 15 2021).
When did the Westernization of Japan begin?
Read a brief summary of this topic but in a broader context the meiji restoration of 1868 is identified with the meiji era (1868-1912) a period of economic and social political change that followed. Modernization and westernization of the country.
Why did Japan Westernise?
One of the reasons for the rapid westernization of the country was an attempt to convince the western powers that Japan was equal in technology and in clothing and eating habits.
Why did Japan modernize so quickly?
The Meiji Restoration eventually abolished the rigid caste system and established a more free and democratic system that allowed Japanese people to realize their full potential. Under this new democratic system Japan has achieved modernization and rapid development.
When did Japan stop being isolationist?
1853
Japans isolation came to an end in 1853 when Commodore Matthew Perry of the United States Navy, commanding a squadron of two steam ships and two sailing vessels, sailed into Tokyo harbor. He sought to force Japan to end their isolation and open their ports to trade with U.S merchant ships.
Who were the first Westerners in Japan?
In 1543 three Portuguese explorers boarded a Chinese ship on a small island called Tanegashima near Kyushu. He was the first European to visit Japan.
How did Japan respond to Westernization?
China and Japan reacted differently to Western imperialism. In essence Japan succumbed to Western pressure to open their ports and cities to foreign trade and relations while China refused. This allowed Japan to modernize with great success.