Japan since 1945 Flashcards
What did Japan have going for it in 1945?
Educated homogenous population, technical skills
What was Japan missing in 1945?
Shit economy, shit political system.
No raw materials, energy, land
When were War Crime Tribunals?
1946.
Treatment of allied POWs
Many deny war crimes in China
Why did US committ to rebuilding Japan?
Asian bulwark against communism
What was Japan’s 1947 constitution based on?
British constitutional monarchy and parliament. Emperor symbolic. Universal suffrage and rights for people
What wasn’t Japan allowed in constitution?
A proper army. Only a civil defence force.
How did Japan Inc. operate via the economy?
Workers are expected to work very hard in exchange for job security. Union negotiations consider loyalty to businesses first
What was the role for women?
Housewives to care for children and overworked husbands
How did consumers behave?
limited luxury goods from foreign nations so as not to create a trade deficit. Save a large portion of their money in banks
Japan economic development 1950s
Low-wage and labour heavy work to undersell Western textiles and light industry
Japan economic development 1960s
Capital heavy strategy that invests in automobiles, TVs and high tech
Japan 1968 economic status
3rd largest industrial economy, second by 1980s. Result is low poverty, well-educated people and excellent social services
How did the 1973 OPEC strategy hurt Japan?
Shortage of oil drove up prices and hurt Japan’s development as they have to buy all their oil
What were other countries doing against Japanese products?
European countries want protectionism - France puts of customs barriers, US auto and electronic concerns want a cap on Japanese exports.
What was Japan’s economic growth in the 70s compared to the early 80s?
10% to 3-4%
