Emperor Meiji - Symbol of the Modern Japan 3600-4-JA3-CMSNJ

The main subject of the lecture is Emperor Mutsuhito, who's reign period (1868-1912) was designated as Meiji, the same as his posthumous designation. He became a symbol of modern Japan, a symbol of deep and very effective reforms, the modernization, which radically changed all aspects of the Japan's politics, economy and society. During Mutsuhito long reign Japan progressed from semi-feudal, agrarian state to the modern and strong power, to the constitutional monarchy. He was the one who took power in the country after the collapse of the samurais 700 years rule, the collapse caused by anti-Tokugawa warriors from four domains (Satsuma, Choshu, Tosa and Hizen). Although the real power was largely held by the so-called Meiji oligarchy - new politicians, who were samurais from these four domains, there is no doubt that the Meiji emperor wielded considerable personal influence. The emperor, "sacred and inviolable" was the holder of sovereign power, commander of the armed forces and the center of national morality and identity.