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Japanese Imperialism

Definition

Japanese Imperialism refers to Japan's period of colonial expansion across Asia and the Pacific from late 19th century to mid-20th century, driven by economic needs, military interests, and national pride.

Analogy

Think about a player in a board game like Risk or Monopoly. They start with one property (or territory), but as they gain more resources, they begin buying up more properties around them. That's what Japan was doing during its imperialistic phase - acquiring territories for resources and power.

Related terms

Meiji Restoration: A major revolution in Japan in 1868 that led to the modernization and westernization of country.

Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere: This was a concept created and promulgated during the Shōwa era by government and military of Empire of Japan representing Asian bloc led by Japan against Western powers during World War II.

Manchurian Incident: An event staged by Japanese military as a pretext for invading northeastern China known as Manchuria in 1931.