World History Japan

What were the changes introduced in Japan after the Second world war?

POLITICAL

• Japan was demilitarised and a new constitution introduced. This had Article 9, the so-called ‘no war clause’ that renounces the use of war as an instrument of state policy
• Political parties were revived and the first post-war elections held in 1946 where women voted for the first time.
• Ministers has to be member of the Diet

ECONOMIC

• Agrarian reforms were carried out by the Americans
• the re-establishment of trade unions and an attempt to dismantle the zaibatsu or large monopoly houses that dominated the Japanese economy were also carried out
• Japanese goods were allowed in the American markets on favorable terms and USA supplied new aid and equipment,

What led to the rapid recovery of Japan post War?

• American help was vital which favored the Japanese goods
• Korean war generated demands for arms and supplies and later the Vietnam war. American firms began to cooperate with the Japanese in the development of new industries.
• Profits from exports were ruthlessly ploughed back in to the industry.The wages were kept low which resulted in competitive goods.
• Stable governments were formed which resulted in rapid recovery.
•  the Japanese had a historic tradition of popular struggles and intellectual engagement with how to broaden political participation. The social cohesion of the pre-war years was strengthened, allowing for a close working of the government, bureaucracy and industry.