In a rare combination of comprehensive coverage and sustained critical focus, this book examines Japanese history in its entirety to identify the factors underlying the nation's progression to superpower status. Japan's achievement is explained not merely in economic terms, but at a more fundamental level, as a product of historical patterns of response to circumstance. Japan is shown to be a nation historically impelled by a pragmatic determination to succeed. The book also highlights unresolved questions and little-known facts.

Autorentext

KENNETH G. HENSHALL is Professor Japanese Studies at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand. He has published on a range of Japan-related topics such as history, society, language and literature, and is author of the best-selling Guide to Remembering Japanese Characters.

Inhalt

Preface Introduction: Japan and History From the Stone Age to Statehood: Myths, Prehistory, and Ancient History Of Courtiers and Warriors: Early and Medieval History (710-1600) The Closed Country: The Tokugawa Period (1600-1868) Building a Modern Nation: The Meiji Period (1868-1912) The Excesses of Ambition: The Pacific War and its Lead-up A Phoenix from the Ashes: Post-War Successes and Beyond Conclusion: Lessons for Aspiring Superpowers References Glossary of Japanese Terms Index