The Meiji Restoration
The Meiji Restoration is used to describe the political events of 1868. The term is also used to refer to the changes that occurred after the establishment of the new government. These changes include the establishment of the modern cabinet system, abolition of feudal domains, and proclamation of the Meiji Constitution. The main goal of the restored government was to embrace the rule of the new Emperor in the Charter Oath. The Meiji Restoration brought significant changes in the social and political structure of Japan. During the period of restoration, Japan was able to adopt Western ideas. However, in 1911, revolution arises in China in retort to the failure of the Qing state. It was referred to as revolutionary because of the revolutions comprised of uprising and revolt. The change was the main feature of the Meiji era. Japan became the most powerful colonial power with modern institutions.
Factors that contributed to the Meiji Restoration
Before the revolution, the government system stimulated the growth of national institutions. Most schools tied to private scholars, government offices, and temples gave Japan high levels of literacy. 40% of the boys were literate while 10% of the girls were educated in the 18000s. Industries and trade developed even though the Tokugawa government and Samurai declined economically. As a result, there was a high capital accumulation in Japan. Additionally, culture firm different cities were very innovative because people were able to produce a combination of novels, woodblock prints and haiku poetry. In the 1800s, Japan was considered as the world’s forefront in every critical level of development.
Contingencies made late-Tokugawa Japan ready for change. A lot of leaders in the country were interested in western culture. As a result, they started to learn about it, especially the industrial revolution which brought nations from China to the Philippines under the European influence. During this particular period, the European and American seaman started visiting the ports of Japan seeking to conclude the isolation policy of the country. Distant domains like Choshu and Satsuma began to experience economic and political growth. In the 1850s a lot of regions in the country had increased their self-confidence. Lastly, the decision of Tokugawa to allow foreigners into Japan in 1854 was a source of Meiji Restoration.