HIST 218 Chapter Notes -Compulsory Education, Chauvinism, Ukiyo-E
4 Feb 2013
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Chapter eight - the emergence of modern japan: 1874-1894. Meiji leaders first priority was to transform japan into a modern nations equal to the west. Some changes were patently new, and others were a re-interpretation or new version of the past. Myths of national essence draws on tokugawa nativist thought, but they became myths participating in japan s process of becoming modern. Small inner circle dominates government from 1870s to 1880s. 1874: military force sent to taiwan; china recognizes japanese sovereignty over ryukyu. Samurai who felt betrayed by meiji leaders led uprisings in 1874 (hizen), 1876 (western. Strained resources of restoration government, but was ultimately crushed. Non-violent political opposition, including those demanding elected legislature (remember first article of 1868 charter oath) Constitution not control emperor, but control his advisors. Constitutionalism, rule of law, social contract, human rights. Clashed with conservative and gradualist views of his colleagues. Advocates for constitutions and popular rights drew on western political theory.
