Table of Contents
Why did Japan want to expand its territories during and after World War I?
Japan needed to import raw materials such as iron, rubber, and oil to maintain strong economic growth. The Japanese felt that acquiring resource-rich territories would establish economic self-sufficiency and independence, and they also hoped to jump-start the nation’s economy in the midst of the Great Depression.
How did Japan become developed?
With a more educated population, Japan’s industrial sector grew significantly. Implementing the Western ideal of capitalism into the development of technology and applying it to their military helped make Japan into both a militaristic and economic powerhouse by the beginning of the 20th century.
Who did Japan convince to open its ports to trade with Japan?
The Japanese grudgingly agreed to Perry’s demands, and the two sides signed the Treaty of Kanagawa on March 31, 1854. According to the terms of the treaty, Japan would protect stranded seamen and open two ports for refueling and provisioning American ships: Shimoda and Hakodate.
Where did Japan colonize?
The Japanese colonized Korea, Taiwan, Manchuria and islands in the Pacific. After the defeats of China and Russia, Japan began conquering and colonizing East Asia to expand its power. The victory over China in 1895 led to the annexation of Formosa (present-day Taiwan).
How did Western influence change the culture of Japan?
What followed was a period of Western influence that would forever change Japan. Many Japanese cast aside ancient traditions in favor of more modern ideas, while others were more resistant to new ways.
Who were the first European to trade in Japan?
The Portuguese weren’t the only Europeans to establish trade in Japan. The first Dutch ship arrived in 1600, and in 1609 the Dutch East India Company (Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie, or VOC) established a trading factory in Hirado.
When did the Portuguese come to Japan?
From 1639, under the sakoku (‘closed country’) policy all Portuguese were forbidden from entering the country. The Portuguese weren’t the only Europeans to establish trade in Japan. The first Dutch ship arrived in 1600, and in 1609 the Dutch East India Company (Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie, or VOC) established a trading factory in Hirado.
What was the impact of the arrival of Christianity in Japan?
The arrival of Christianity also had a profound effect on Japan. The Catholic mission founded by Xavier was one of the most successful in Asia. By the early 1590s there were an estimated 215,000 Japanese Christians.