The Making of Modern Japan

Analyzing the dynamics of historical change, this concise and readable text discusses the major forces in Japan's development from 1600 to the present day, including samurai officialdom, industrialization, militarism, and social values. The focus is not on political details but rather on the dynamics of historical change. Kenneth B. Pyle presents a broad sweeping narrative of Japan s development from a fragmented, agrarian society at the end of the 16th century to today's powerful member of the international community.

Table of Contents:
Chapter 1 Reunification of Japan
Chapter 2 Establishment of the Tokugawa System
Chapter 3 Growth of Tokugawa Society
Chapter 4 Crisis in the Tokugawa System
Chapter 5 The Meiji Restoration
Chapter 6 Revolution in Japan s Worldview
Chapter 7 Beginnings of Industrialization
Chapter 8 Building the Nation-State
Chapter 9 Imperialism and the New Industrial Society
Chapter 10 Crisis of Political Community
Chapter 11 The Road to the Pacific War
Chapter 12 Japan s American Revolution
Chapter 13 Postwar Politics and Purpose
Chapter 14 Economic Nationalism
Chapter 15 The New Middle-Class Society
Chapter 16 The End of an Era