C: Japan 16. Return to Roots p. 350 Flashcards
What do conservatives prefer in terms of change?
Traditional or proven ways and values
Conservatives may resist or oppose rapid change.
What societal tensions can arise from disagreements about changes?
Tensions between generations and social classes
Disagreements about new trends can create conflicts in values and beliefs.
What significant period in Japanese history is characterized by rapid change and Westernization?
Meiji period
This era saw many social and economic transformations in Japan.
How did wealthy people in Meiji Japan respond to Westernization?
They bought Western clothing and goods for their homes
This indicates a willingness to adopt new ideas and lifestyles.
What was one action taken by poor farmers in Meiji Japan reflecting Western influence?
They drew up a ‘village constitution’
This constitution was influenced by Western political ideas.
What expectation did the ‘village constitution’ include?
People should participate directly in government
This reflects democratic ideals influenced by Western thought.
What was the motto of the Westernization movement in Japan?
‘Civilization and Enlightenment’
This motto encapsulated the goals of adopting Western ways.
True or False: All social classes in Meiji Japan were resistant to new ideas.
False
Many people across social classes were open to new ideas and ways.
Fill in the blank: The conflict in Japanese society during the Meiji period was between those who favored new ways and those who _____ change.
opposed
What is a key factor that can magnify tensions during periods of change?
The pace of change
A rapid pace can create greater discomfort and resistance.
How does the ability to adjust to change today compare to 100 or 150 years ago?
Change might be easier for people to adjust to today
Advances in communication and education may facilitate adaptation.
What was the goal of the Meiji government officials regarding Western treaties?
To change the unequal treaties with Western countries
How did Meiji reformers believe they could win respect for Japan?
By showing that Japan was a modern, ‘civilized country’
What did the Meiji reformers believe would result from Westernization?
A stronger and more competitive Japan
What cultural changes were evident in Japanese port cities during the Meiji era?
Availability of foreign books and magazines
What significant media development occurred in Japan in 1871?
The launch of daily newspapers
Where were newspapers placed for public access?
In public reading rooms
What was one purpose of the newspapers in Japanese society?
To urge citizens to adopt ‘new and improved’ ideas
True or False: Westerners in the mid-1800s were often tolerant of Japanese culture.
False
What was the attitude of Westerners in the mid-1800s towards Japanese customs?
They were often not tolerant of Japanese customs.
This intolerance led to changes in Japanese practices to accommodate foreign sensibilities.
What action did the governor of Yokohama take regarding Japanese laborers’ clothing?
He ordered all labourers and boatmen to ‘wear a shirt or tunic, properly closed.’
This was in response to complaints from European women about the lack of ‘respectable clothing.’
What law did the Japanese government pass in 1872?
A law to prohibit tattooing, including that done by the Ainu.
This law reflected a shift in cultural practices influenced by Western norms.
How did public bathing, an essential Japanese ritual, affect Victorians?
It shocked proper Victorians.
This led to public baths being ordered to close or be modified.
Fill in the blank: In warm weather, Japanese working men wore only _______.
loincloths.
This attire was viewed as inappropriate by some Western visitors.