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By the early 19th century, Japanese society was in turmoil. Declining agricultural productivity, Harsh taxes on pesants, Samurai & Daimyo in debt to merchants, periodic crop failures, famine, & starvation, and the West arrives demanding trade with Japan.
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After the Opium War with China & the West, Japan was convinced that it had to "open up" to the West.
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Japan went from a non-industrial feudal nation to a modern, industrial, & imperial power.
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The Arrival of Mathew Perry introduced unequal treaties, Perry's "black" ships steamed into Tokyo Bay, and the Japanese was forced to establish trade and diplomatic relations with the U.S.
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The rulers of Japan set the tone with western dress during their reign.
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1878-1913.
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The Japanese Constitution of 1889 was based on a German model. This established constitutional monarchy with legislature(diet). The Emporer commanded monarrchy, named a prime minister, & appointed the cabniet.
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Only 5% of the population got to vote in the 1890 elcection.
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At this time, the most that women were taught is how to sew and other basic nescessities on how to take care of a house.
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Women in Japan changed their fashion to be more European.
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Lasted for 1 year resulting in Japan's 2nd Victory.
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The first "Miss Japan" happened in 1908.
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Japan anexxes Korea in 1910.