What were the major developments before the Meiji restoration that made it possible for Japan to modernize rapidly?
The Meiji restoration was made in 1867-1868. Before it, the following major developments made it possible for Japan to Modernize rapidly:
1. Peasants were disarmed, now only the Samurai’s could carried the swords. This ensured peace and order ending the frequent wars of the previous centuries.
2. The Daimyo were ordered to live in the capital of their domains. They were also given a large degree of autonomy.
3. Land surveys were made to indentify owners and tax payers. Land productivity was also granted to ensure a stable revenue base.
4. There was rise in population in the Daimyo’s capitals. This led to the growth of a commercial economy and creates financial and credit system.
5. A person’s merit began to be more valued than his status.
6. The fast growing class of merchants in towns patronize theatre and the arts.
7. People have developed a habit of reading.
8. Restrictions were put on the export of precious metal.
9. Steps were taken to develop the skill industry so as to reduce imports.
10. Use of money has increase, and the stock market in rise was created.
11. People began to study ancient Japanese literature which led them to question the degree of Chinese influence on Japan.
Discuss how daily life was transformed as Japan developed.
Patriarchal household system was prevailed earlier in Japan in which many generations lived together. They all lived together under the control of the head of the house. As people became effluent, new ideas of the family came into being. The new home was of nuclear family in which husband and wife are both bread-makers as well as home-makers. The old patriarchal system began to break; this new system also generated demands for new types of domestic goods and new forms of housing.
How did the Qing dynasty try and meet the challenge posed by the Western powers?
The Qing dynasty failed to meet the challenge posed by the western powers. The opium war (1839-1842 C.E) with Britain weakened it. There was a demand for reform and change in the country by the Qing dynasty. The Qing dynasty provided a failure in it also. Consequently, the country faced a civil war and failed in its endeavour.
What were Sun Yat-sen’s Three Principles?
Following are the three principles of Sun Yat-Sen’s:
1. Nationalism – this meant overthrowing the Manchus because it was considered as a foreign dynasty ruling on their native land.
2. Democracy – to establish a democratic government in the country to increase people’s participation and overall growth and development.
3. Socialism – to regulate capital and equalise the land holdings for equal economic orientation.
Did Japan’s policy of rapid industrialisation lead to wars with its neighbours and destruction of the environment?
It is true that rapid industrialization led to wars with its neighbours and destruction of the environment:
1. Uncontrolled development of industries led to increase in the demand of wood and other resources. It had a very bad impact on the environment.
2. Need of colonies was felt to obtain raw materials and for the consumption of furnace products. For this, Japan had to fight wars with its neighbours.
3. It led to the exploitation of natural resources and it had a bad effect on the environment of Japan which became polluted and fragile.
Do you think that Mao Zedong and the Communist Party of China were successful in liberating China and laying the basis for its current success?
Yes, Moa Zedong and the Communist Party of China was successful in liberating china and laying the basis for its current success:
1. after the death of Sun Yat-Sen in 1925, the Guomindang was headed by Chiang-Kai-Shek. Though he strengthens the rule of Guomindang yet he took no step to achieve the three revolutionary objects of Sun Yat-Sen. Contrary to it, he followed the policy to suppress his opponents and the communist. He was also supported by the Soviet Union. Moreover he attempted to raise a new class of landlords, he exploited the peasantry. In the mean time communist leader Moa-Zedong form the red army to strengthen the peasant movement.
2. In 1930 Mao Zedong became the chairperson of the council of presents and workers and began to work underground. He established the red army and started a guerrilla war against Chiang-Kai-Shek’s large army. He defeated Chiang’s army four times, but in fifth attack he was so under pressure that he planned and implemented the long march.
3. In 1935 Mao Zedong formed a communist front against Japan. He thought that his struggle against Japan would popularise him and also make his mass movement more effective. He also suggested that the Guomindang should work with the red army and a united front be formed. But Chiang did not accept his proposal. This harmed his prestige to the extent that his own soldiers imprisoned him. Moa continued his struggle against Japan until he succeeded.
4. Chiang-Kei-Shek was worried about increasing power of Mao Zedong. He did not want to work with him. After great difficulties He was ready to stand against Japan. When the war ended, Moa put a proposal of a coalition government before Chiang but he did not accept it. Mao continued with his struggle. In 1949 Chiang escaped to Formosa (Modern Taiwan) to seek asylum there. Mao Zedong was elected the chairman of the Chinese government. He held his office till his death.