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In a rare combination of comprehensive coverage and sustained critical focus, this book examines Japanese history in its entirety to identify the factors underlying the nation's progression to superpower. Japan's achievement is explained not merely in economic terms, but at a more fundamental level, as a product of historical patterns of response to circumstance. Japan is shown to be a nation historically impelled by a pragmatic determination to succeed. The book also highlights unresolved questions and little-known facts.
List of contents
Preface Introduction: Japan and History From the Stone Age to Statehood: Myths, Prehistory, and Ancient History Of Courtiers and Warriors: Early and Medieval History (710-1600) The Closed Country: the Tokugawa Period (1600-1868) Building a Modern Nation: the Meiji Period (1868-1912) The Excesses of Ambition: the Pacific War and Its Lead-up A Phoenix from the Ashes: Post-War Successes and Beyond Conclusion: Lessons for Aspiring Superpowers References Glossary of Japanese Terms Index
Report
'One of the most important books in Japanese studies in recent years.' - Ken Coates, Professor of History, University of New Brunswick
'In making the history of this remarkable society accessible to a wider public Professor Henshall has performed a most valuable service.' - Derek Massarella, Professor of Economic History, Chuo University, Japan
'An extraordinary book that will appeal to student, specialist, and
general reader alike.' - Laurie Barber, Professor of History, University of Waikato
