7.3 Industrialization and military buildup

Japan's Meiji era saw rapid industrialization and modernization. The government played a crucial role, adopting Western technologies, establishing model factories, and developing infrastructure. These efforts transformed Japan from a feudal society to a modern industrial power in just a few decades.

The military also underwent significant changes during this period. Japan introduced conscription, adopted Western-style organization, and developed domestic arms production. These reforms led to military victories that demonstrated Japan's new strength on the global stage.

Economic and Industrial Development

Factors in Japan's Meiji industrialization

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• Meiji Restoration of 1868 ended Tokugawa shogunate restored imperial rule
• Adoption of Western technologies and practices sent students abroad hired foreign experts (oyatoi gaikokujin)
• Natural resources fueled industrial growth (coal deposits)
• Pre-existing economic foundations from Edo period proto-industrial development established merchant class and commercial networks
• Cultural factors emphasized education and literacy fostered strong work ethic and discipline

Government role in industrialization

• State-led industrialization model involved direct government involvement in key industries
• Establishment of model factories jumpstarted industrial sectors (textile mills, shipyards)
• Infrastructure development expanded transportation and communication networks (railways, telegraphs, ports)
• Financial reforms modernized economy:
  1. Created modern banking system
  2. Established Bank of Japan in 1882
• Educational reforms implemented compulsory education system established technical and engineering schools
• Legal and institutional changes introduced modern legal codes allowed formation of joint-stock companies
• Zaibatsu formation supported large industrial conglomerates (Mitsubishi, Mitsui)

Military Modernization and Societal Impact

Development of Japan's modern military

• Abolition of samurai class paved way for new military structure
• Conscription system introduced universal male conscription in 1873
• Western-style military organization adopted:
  • Army modeled after Prussian system
  • Navy influenced by British Royal Navy
• Military education and training established military academies sent officers for overseas training
• Domestic arms production developed arsenals and shipyards (Yokosuka Naval Arsenal)
• Military victories demonstrated Japan's new military prowess (Sino-Japanese War 1894-1895, Russo-Japanese War 1904-1905)

Impact of industrialization on Japan

• Economic growth shifted from agriculture to manufacturing emerged new industrial centers (Yokohama, Kobe)
• Urbanization drove rural-urban migration expanded cities (Tokyo, Osaka)
• Social mobility created new middle class eroded traditional status system
• Labor issues arose from poor factory working conditions sparked labor movements and strikes
• Gender roles changed with women's participation in industrial workforce promoted "Good Wife, Wise Mother" ideology
• Nationalism and militarism increased national pride extended military influence on civilian life
• Environmental impact caused pollution in industrial areas led to deforestation for resources
• International relations improved through revision of unequal treaties positioned Japan as emerging world power