Militarism
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Militarism - In Japan, it begins with looking at the events in 1920’s China, with its nationalist government, and the onset of the great depression, the needs for raw materials and self-sufficiency, and coup attempts. The military desired a militaristic government, while opponents were those who wanted to a democratic, capitalistic society. The military had unity of purpose and an aversion for civilian rule. Japan had made its army and navy ministers more powerful than the rest of the cabinet. Co-equal with the prime minister allowing direct access to the throne. The military leaders, bent or overtaking mainland China, and pushing out the westerners from both Japan and China, caused chaos in the ensuing years. This gave way to a number of military coups which continued until General Hideki Tojo, became prime minister in 1941, whom pushed the United States and Britain into war. Military Leaders: Tojo Hideki Hirohito |