Causes of Militarism and Extreme Nationalism
- The rise of militarism in Japan during the 1930s was driven by economic crisis, political instability, and resentment toward the West.
- The Great Depression (1929) devastated Japan’s export-based economy, leading to unemployment, rural poverty, and social unrest.
- Many Japanese believed that liberal democracy had failed, and only military leadership could restore stability and national pride.
- Military officers saw expansion in Manchuria and China as a solution to Japan’s resource shortages and population pressures.
- Nationalist ideology, emphasizing loyalty to the emperor and sacrifice for the nation, became central to education, media, and politics.
Definition
Militarism
- The belief that the military should dominate politics and national policy, often justified by claims of national destiny.
Definition
Ultranationalism
- An extreme form of nationalism that glorifies the nation and seeks expansion through conquest.
Causes of the Rise of Militarism
Economic and Political Factors
- The Great Depression cut Japanese exports by half, collapsing silk prices and impoverishing farmers.
- Urban workers faced unemployment and wage cuts, while rural families suffered starvation and sold daughters into servitude.
- Civilian politicians appeared corrupt and ineffective, discrediting party government.
- The army, seen as disciplined and patriotic, gained prestige as the defender of Japan’s honor and stability.
- Nationalists blamed Western powers for racial discrimination and trade restrictions, arguing Japan must build its own empire.
Ideological and Cultural Factors
- The military promoted State Shinto, portraying the emperor as a divine figure and obedience as a moral duty.
- Textbooks and schools emphasized loyalty, self-sacrifice, and anti-Western sentiment, preparing youth for service.
- Writers and intellectuals, such as Kita Ikki, argued for a “Shōwa Restoration”, restoring direct imperial rule and ending party politics.
- The mass media glorified Japan’s imperial mission, celebrating the army’s actions in Manchuria and China.
- This ideological environment allowed militarism to appear as both a moral and patriotic movement.
The Army’s Increasing Role in Politics and the Use of Violence
- The Kwantung Army acted independently of the civilian government, launching the Manchurian Incident (1931)without approval.
