Revolutionary origins of modern Japan

English-medium elective

This course will examine the major political, economic, social, cultural and international developments that occurred during the revolutionary 45-year period of late nineteenth and early twentieth century Japan. In addition to exploring the creation of key national institutions including military conscription, tax, and education, we will examine Japan’s emergence in East Asia as a colonial and military power, as well as the role of different makers of modern Japan ranging from the Emperor and the Meiji oligarchs, to the farmers and female factory workers.