Japanese militarism began as soon as Tokugawa shogunate was overthrown and the beginning of the Meiji Restoration
Period: to
Russo-Japanese War: Japanese captures Russian territory in Siberia and expanded its influence in Manchuria.
Japan conquers Korea, ending China's influence over Korea.
Emperor Taisho takes the throne - his reign marked the real beginning of militarism's takeover
The Great Kanto eartquake and resulting Tsunami destroyed Japan's developing economy, as a result citizens were starving and desperate for a new government.
Japanese Depression - From the kanto earthquake, Japan experienced economic depression, particularly in it's rural regions. This caused a massive increase in Army membership.
Emperor Hirohito takes the throne and remained emperor through WWII.
The world's great depression began causing great economic hardships for the Japanese people.
Manchurian Incident - Japanese army fakes a railway bombing by the Chinese and without official approval, Japan invades Manchuria. Manchuria becomes a state that was controlled and protected by Japan.
Japanese navy officers assassinated prime minister Tsuyoshi Inukai
Japan invaded China proper, capturing several major cities.
Japan-China war began: Japanese and Chinese troops had a battle at Marco Polo Bridge near Beijing
