Korean isolation: Queen Min; opening (1876)

How was Korea ‘Opened’? 1866-1876 Choson Korea Ruled by Chosun dynasty since 1392, hereditary Monarchy heavily influenced by Chinese culture (buddhism, confucianism) Korea did not have military class = it had upper class called Yangban Invaded many times (Japanese 1592-7 invasion) Manchus 1627-1636 invaded before they invaded China Manchus forced Korea to pay tribute to …

How and why did Japan become an Imperial Power?

Causes Meiji restoration Foreigner hate = wanted to strengthen Japan (resist domination) AIM: Rich country, strong army - economic reforms Throw off asia Martial/Samurai spirit = BUSHIDO = always been a military country Yamagata Aritomo - ex-Samurai who became the founding father of the Modern Japanese army Believed in Social Darwinism Strong eat up the …

The rise of Japanese military power; victory in war

Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) Causes Imo Mutiny in July 23 1882 Violent uprising in Seoul who were angered at Emperor Kojong’s support for reform and modernisation ⇒ incorporating JP soldiers in new army structure Unpaid wages Poor working and living conditions Provoked by the Japanese Japanese decided to send a delegate to meet with Korean officials …

Social, Cultural and Economic Development in Meiji Japan

Social changes Samurai Ranks changed to “commoners”, spending is taxed (1872) Mass conscription introduced - reduced purpose of Samurai (1873) All incomes are converted to government bonds (1876) Samurai banned from carrying weapons (1876) Commoners No shi-no-ko-sho (1870) Restrictions on dress/hair/occupation ended (1870) Discrimination ended for outcasts (1870) Education Mass schooling introduced (1872) 4 years …

The Meiji Restoration (1868) and the 1889 Constitution

Causes: Long-term Political conflict 1600-1868: New government called Bakufu Period is known as the Tokugawa Bakufu Shogun - general in charge, Daimyo - regional lords, Samurai - kept Daimyo in power All discouraged change Samurai culture did not want modern warfare Factionalism between lords Still had shinokosho caste system = four divisions of society = …