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660 BCE
660 BCE
Founding of Japan, the mythological beginnings. It is a legend that Emperor Jimmu, became the first emperor, and began a continuous imperial line. As a descendent of Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess. Its founding is a crucial step in how it has gotten to its place in the world today. Though there is no factual evidence to this legend, in modern Japan, the National Foundation Day on February 11, is based on Jimmu's legend. -
538
Asuka Period (538-710 AD)
The Asuka period is significant in artistic, social, and political aspects. Japan began to have cultural exchanges with Korea and China. This time marked a change in Japanese society with the introduction of Buddhism, from Korea. And the Adoption of the Chinese pattern of government. -
794
Heian Period (794-1185 AD)
The time for the flourishing of art and literature. Especially for women in the imperial court, who wrote several diaries and novels. Often written with the Japanese writing (kana),which was created. Japan had established a distinct culture, in the royal court. Including the production of fine silk clothing, poetry's rise in popularity, calligraphy, screen paintings, and intricate hand scrolls of pictures and text. Creating a larger gap between nobles and commoners. -
1185
Kamakura Shogunate (1185- 1333 AD)
A time when power shifted and war raged on. Warriors were now held in the highest regard for their skills, loyalty, and bravery. The emperor was now nothing more than a figurehead and military leaders took control. Minamoto no Yoritomo was the shōgun at this time, after victory in the Genpei War. He established the Kamakura shogunate, a military dictatorship. -
1274
Mongol Invasions (1274 & 1281 AD)
In 1274 and 1281 China's Emperor Shizu of Yuan attempted to conquer Japan. Though Japan was resilient against foreign invasions and aided by typhoons. The kamikaze said to have saved Japan were two perfectly timed typhoons that took out two fleets. These invasions were one of the earliest times of gunpowder warfare outside of China, with the use of explosive, hand-thrown bombs.The failed invasions, set a limit on Mongol expansion and ultimately solidified Japan's national identity. -
1467
Sengoku Period (1467-1603 AD)
A time of civil war and social disorder, including many instances of rebellions. With continuous war lasting for a century it only ended due to the creation of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1603. Leading to the rise of powerful feudal lords (daimyos). -
Unification under Tokugawa Ieyasu (1603 AD)
In 1603 Emperor Go-Yōzei, appointed Ieyasu the historic title of shogun. Acknowledginghim as the most powerful daimyo in Japan. Ieyasu became Japan's legitimate ruler and united Japan. This was the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate as the national government. Bringing peace and stability for over 250 years. -
Sakoku Edict (1635 AD)
Japan's self-imposed isolation, meant to limit or even eliminate foreign influence and trade. enforced by strict government rules and regulations to keep Japan secluded and impose these ideas. Catholicism was forbidden. The Japanese were to be in Japan, anyone caught trying to leave the country, or return after was to be executed. Even non-Japanese who entered Japan could be faced with the death penalty too. -
Commodore Perry's Arrival (1853 AD)
In 1853, Matthew Perry led four of his ships into Tokyo Bay harbour. seeking to re-establish trade with Japan on behalf of the U.S. government. Perry forced Japan through intimidation with his display of advanced firepower.In conclusion, Commodore Perry's visit resulted in the Japanese ports being slowly re-opened to the West, ending over two centuries of isolation.Leading to the collapse of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and Japan's modernisation/westernisation. -
Meiji Restoration (1868 AD)
The final demise of the Tokugawa shogunate (military government )and shōgun ("great general"). political revolution or coup in Japan that returned control of the country to imperial rule. The emperor was restored to the supreme position, taking the new name of Meiji ("enlightened rule"). Leading to even more rapid modernization and industrialization. -
First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895 AD)
A fight for control over Korea. Against, China a dominant power in the region, which Japan had faced before. Only this time Japan reigned victorious over China, humiliating them. This established Japan as a significant power in East Asia, promoting its growth of nationalism. -
Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905 AD)
For dominance in Korea and Manchuria, a war between the Japanese Empire and the Russian Empire began. With Japan victorious once more, becoming the first Asian power to have defeated a European power. Forcing Russia to abandon its plans of acquiring new lands within East Asia. -
World War I (1914-1918 )
In World War I Japan took part as a member of the Allies/Entente. Playing a crucial role in the fight against the Imperial German Navy. Politically by participating in the war Japan expanded their influence in China and the Pacific, and gained recognition as a great power. Though with the sudden increase in demand for Japanese products in war times. led to severe shortages and turmoil in Japan. -
Great Kanto Earthquake (1923)
On September 1, 1923, there was a devastating natural disaster that reshaped Japan. The catastrophic earthquake lasted 4-10 minutes with 57 aftershocks. Severely damaging the cities of Tokyo, Yokohama. Destroying Over 570,000 homes, causing fires that burned for several days, landslides and estimated to have killed 140,000–186,283 people. Japan recovered through a reconstruction focusing on rebuilding Tokyo with modern infrastructures, that still contribute to the Tokyo of today. -
Rise of Militarism (1930s)
The increment of military influence in the Japanese government. Driven by the economic hardship due to the Great Depression. Which led to the military taking a more dominant role in politics and the aggressive expansion in Asia, through military triumph. -
World War II (1941-1945)
In World War II Japan invaded China, French Indochina, and other parts of Asia. As well as attacking Pearl Harbor, motivating the United States to enter the war. And went on to war with the United States and its allies for oil. Japan had been modernizing and wanted to build an empire, but lacked the natural resources. As a result of the war the U.S. dropped two atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan surrendering. After, great losses of lives and cities. -
Post-War Reconstruction (1945-1952)
After Japan was defeated in World War II, the United States occupied and led military, political, economic, and social reforms. Most significantly the San Francisco Peace Treaty was signed which officially ended World War II and allowed Japan to regain its independence. Later on allowing Japan to govern itself once more. -
Economic Miracle (1950s-1980s)
A period of rapid economic growth in Japan transforming Japan into one of the world's largest economies. With the government promoting industrial expansion and technological advancement. Japan industrialized, technologically advanced, and experienced export-led growth. Japanese citizens worked hard to contribute to economic growth, with a work ethic. -
Tokyo Olympics (1964)
Held in 1964 Tokyo, from October 10–24, were the first Olympic Games to be held in Asia. In preparation Japan modernized its infrastructure by including train and subway lines, highways, Haneda International Airport, and the shinkansen bullet train. This showcased Japan on a global stage, and overall helped modernize, and unify Japan. As well as establishing sports in Japan, leading to the opening of sports clubs and training clinics. -
Contemporary Japan (21st century)
The Japan of today is a technological leader and cultural influencer that is rich in culture and tradition. Japan prioritizes change and is involved internationally, always looking for something new and innovative . All while navigating challenges such as an aging population. Japan has come a long way and is standing tall as a powerful nation.