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Period of reform in Japan (feudalism abolished, industrialization, creation of parliament, modern governing system).
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The Emperor declared Japan's first Constitution. Work of the Privy Council. Stated that: (1) Emperor was Head of State and divine individual (2) Government authority comes from Emperor, ministers must respond to him alone, not to the Diet/parliament (3) Military received significant independence, reported to the Emperor, held two cabinet positions in all government.
The constitution required all decision/laws to be agreed upon by ALL MINISTERS. Gave military veto power. -
A parliament that was composed of THE HOUSE OF PEERS (Nobility, High Taxpayers, famous people, people appointed by emperor, approved laws went forward to Privy Council) and THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (elected by those with suffrage, created and passed laws).
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All citizens had to attend school for 4 years, in 1903 this was increased to 6 years. Was supposed to teach practical skills and problem-solving. Increased literacy, reading books, newspapers, journals, criticizing the government as awareness grew.
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Militaristic Education, as well as political and philosophical ideas, triggered the creation and propagation of ultranationalism. Factors included: (1) Japan had divine Emperor (2) Had not been conquered by European Powers (3) Ancient history of being independent (4) Vast majority was Japanese, common history and culture (5) Defeated Russia (6) Major power by 1920 and important in Paris Conference after WWI.
