Glossary

8.2 Economic growth and social changes

2 min read•july 24, 2024

Japan's economy boomed during the Taishō and early Shōwa periods. sparked demand for Japanese goods, accelerating and the growth of conglomerates. Technological advancements and government policies fueled rapid economic expansion.

This economic growth triggered massive social changes. , , and Western influences reshaped Japanese society. The middle class expanded, women's roles evolved, and new social movements emerged, transforming daily life and cultural norms.

Economic Growth in Taishō and Early Shōwa Japan

Economic boom in Taishō-Shōwa Japan

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  • World War I stimulated Japan's economy increasing demand for Japanese goods and expanding export markets (textiles, machinery)
  • Rapid industrialization accelerated growth of (steel, shipbuilding) and development of chemical and (, )
  • Zaibatsu conglomerates expanded family-controlled business groups dominating key sectors of the economy (, )
  • Technological advancements led to adoption of mass production techniques and improved transportation and communication networks (assembly lines, railways)
  • Government policies promoted industrial growth and investment in infrastructure (subsidies, public works projects)

Modernization and social changes

  • Urbanization spurred rural-to-urban migration and growth of major cities (, , )
  • Rise of consumerism drove emergence of department stores and increased availability of consumer goods (, electric appliances)
  • Lifestyle changes included adoption of Western-style clothing and cuisine and new forms of entertainment (kimonos to suits, sushi to bread, cinema, cafes)
  • Education and literacy expanded with increased educational opportunities and higher literacy rates (compulsory education, universities)
  • Women's roles evolved with entry into workforce and changing family dynamics (factory work, office jobs)

Impact on classes and movements

  • Middle class expansion grew white-collar workforce and increased disposable income ()
  • Working class conditions improved through labor movements and strikes leading to better working conditions and wages ()
  • Rural-urban divide widened economic disparities between cities and countryside prompting agricultural reforms (land redistribution)
  • New social movements emerged including labor unions, women's rights organizations, and student activism (, )
  • Intellectual and cultural developments spread socialist and democratic ideas and spawned literary and artistic movements (Marxism, Proletarian Literature)

Western influence on Japanese society

  • Cultural exchange increased through travel and study abroad and translation of Western literature and philosophy (, )
  • Modernization of education system incorporated Western teaching methods and emphasized science and technology (laboratory-based learning)
  • Political ideas grew with democratic movements and debates on individual rights and freedoms ()
  • Artistic influences introduced Western-style painting and music and fusion of traditional and modern art forms (, )
  • Popular culture embraced Western sports and influenced fashion and entertainment (, Western-style clothing)
  • Architectural changes brought Western-style buildings to urban areas and introduced modern city planning concepts (, grid system)

Key Terms to Review (29)

8-hour workday: The 8-hour workday is a labor standard that mandates eight hours of work in a day, typically structured as part of a larger workweek, promoting a balanced life between work and personal time. This concept emerged as a response to industrialization, which often subjected workers to long hours and harsh conditions, leading to movements advocating for labor rights and improved working conditions.
Baseball: Baseball is a bat-and-ball game that originated in the United States and has become a significant part of Japanese culture since its introduction in the late 19th century. The sport has grown tremendously in popularity and is seen as a reflection of economic growth and social changes within Japan, particularly after World War II as the country rebuilt itself and embraced new cultural influences.
Chemical Industries: Chemical industries refer to the sector of the economy that produces chemicals and related products through the transformation of raw materials. This industry plays a significant role in economic growth and social changes, as it provides essential materials for various other sectors, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, thus influencing both economic development and societal progress.
Consumerism: Consumerism is the social and economic ideology that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. It promotes the idea that personal happiness and social status can be achieved through consumption, which often leads to changes in societal values, priorities, and behaviors. This phenomenon is closely linked to economic growth, as increased consumption can drive production and innovation while also reflecting broader social changes.
Electrical Industries: Electrical industries encompass the production and distribution of electrical energy and the manufacture of electrical equipment and appliances. This sector plays a critical role in modern economies, facilitating industrial growth and social changes by powering homes, businesses, and infrastructure, thereby shaping the economic landscape and daily life of society.
Ginza Bricktown: Ginza Bricktown is a historic area in Tokyo, Japan, known for its unique blend of Western architectural influence and traditional Japanese culture. This area showcases a significant transformation in urban design and commercial growth during the Meiji era, reflecting the broader changes in Japan's economy and society as it modernized and engaged with the global market.
Heavy industries: Heavy industries refer to sectors of the economy that produce large quantities of goods and require significant capital investment, substantial infrastructure, and high energy consumption. This term often includes industries such as steel production, shipbuilding, and machinery manufacturing. The growth of heavy industries has been a crucial factor in economic development, contributing to industrialization and shaping social changes, including urbanization and changes in labor dynamics.
Industrialization: Industrialization refers to the process of transforming an economy from primarily agrarian to one based on the manufacturing of goods and services. This shift not only impacts economic structures but also triggers social changes, influencing political dynamics, urban growth, and family roles in society.
Japan Federation of Labor: The Japan Federation of Labor, established in 1920, was a significant organization representing various labor unions across Japan. It emerged during a period of growing political liberalization and social change, advocating for workers' rights and better working conditions amid rapid industrialization. This federation played a vital role in the Taishō democracy movement, as it sought to empower workers and influence labor policies through collective bargaining and political engagement.
Jazz: Jazz is a musical genre that originated in the African American communities of New Orleans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its use of improvisation, syncopation, and a strong rhythmic element. This vibrant form of music not only reflects the cultural blending of African and European musical traditions but also embodies the social changes and economic growth experienced during its rise, particularly in urban America.
Mitsubishi: Mitsubishi is a Japanese multinational conglomerate founded in 1870 by Yataro Iwasaki, originally focusing on shipping and trade. Over time, it expanded into various industries including manufacturing, banking, and heavy industry, playing a crucial role in Japan's economic growth and industrialization. Its diversification has led to significant contributions to military buildup and economic transformation in Japan.
Mitsui: Mitsui is one of Japan's oldest and most prominent conglomerates, founded in the 17th century as a trading company. The Mitsui family played a significant role in the economic growth of Japan, particularly during the Meiji Restoration, by engaging in various industries including finance, textiles, and manufacturing. Their impact on both economic growth and social changes is immense, as they helped modernize Japan's economy while also influencing societal structures.
Mitsukoshi: Mitsukoshi is one of Japan's most iconic and longstanding department store chains, originally established in the late 17th century as a kimono shop. It has evolved over the years, becoming a symbol of modernization and consumer culture in Japan, especially during the Meiji period when Western influences began to permeate Japanese society. The growth of Mitsukoshi reflects broader economic transformations and social changes that occurred as Japan transitioned from a feudal economy to a more market-oriented system.
Mori Ogai: Mori Ogai was a prominent Japanese novelist, poet, and physician during the Meiji era, known for his contributions to modern Japanese literature and the introduction of Western literary styles. His works often reflect the social changes and economic growth occurring in Japan during this transformative period, illustrating the clash between traditional values and modernity.
Nagoya: Nagoya is a major city located in the Aichi Prefecture of Japan, known for its rich history, economic significance, and role in urban development. As one of Japan's largest cities, it became a vital industrial and commercial center, particularly during the post-war economic boom. The city's strategic location and modern infrastructure contributed to its rapid growth, influencing both social changes and urbanization processes in Japan.
Natsume Soseki: Natsume Soseki was a renowned Japanese novelist and scholar, often regarded as one of Japan's greatest literary figures. His works reflect the dramatic social changes and economic growth that Japan experienced during the Meiji era, capturing the tensions between tradition and modernity. Soseki's insights into the human psyche and society provide a rich understanding of the personal and social impacts of Japan's rapid transformation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Osaka: Osaka is a major city in Japan, historically known as a commercial and economic hub. Its significance rose during the Edo period as it became the center of trade, connecting various regions and facilitating economic growth. This bustling metropolis has played a critical role in Japan’s industrialization and urbanization, reflecting broader social transformations throughout history.
Panasonic: Panasonic is a multinational electronics company based in Japan, known for its wide range of products, including consumer electronics, home appliances, and industrial solutions. The company's innovations and advancements in technology have played a crucial role in shaping the economic landscape of Japan and influencing social changes, particularly during the post-World War II economic boom.
Salaryman culture: Salaryman culture refers to the social and work lifestyle associated with white-collar workers in Japan, characterized by long working hours, loyalty to a single company, and a strong group mentality. This culture emerged during Japan's post-war economic boom, reflecting broader economic growth and social changes, as individuals dedicated themselves to their companies often at the expense of personal life.
Shōwa Period: The Shōwa Period refers to the era in Japan that lasted from 1926 to 1989, marked by significant events including World War II, Japan's post-war recovery, and the country's transformation into a modern economic powerhouse. This period is defined by both rapid industrial growth and profound social changes, reflecting shifts in Japan's political landscape and cultural identity.
Sony: Sony is a multinational conglomerate corporation based in Japan, primarily known for its electronics, gaming, and entertainment divisions. Founded in 1946, Sony has played a crucial role in Japan's post-war economic growth and has become a key player in shaping popular culture worldwide through its innovative products and media offerings.
Suffrage Movement: The suffrage movement refers to the social and political campaign advocating for the right to vote, primarily focused on expanding voting rights to women in various societies. It highlights the struggle against systemic inequalities and the efforts of individuals and groups who mobilized to challenge the existing norms that restricted participation in democratic processes. The movement played a crucial role in promoting social changes and influencing economic growth by advocating for greater representation in governance.
Taisho Democracy: Taisho Democracy refers to the period in Japan during the Taisho era (1912-1926) characterized by a significant increase in democratic movements and political participation. This era saw the rise of political parties, greater suffrage, and a shift towards more liberal policies, driven by a growing middle class and social changes. However, this period also laid the groundwork for the subsequent rise of militarism and ultranationalism as political factions vied for power and influence.
Taishō Period: The Taishō period refers to the era in Japan from 1912 to 1926, marked by the reign of Emperor Taishō. This period is notable for significant political, social, and cultural changes that occurred as Japan transitioned from a Meiji society into a more modern and democratic state. It saw the emergence of democratic movements, economic growth, and increasing Western influence, reflecting a complex interplay between tradition and modernity.
Tokyo: Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. Historically known as Edo, the city underwent significant transformation during the Meiji Restoration, evolving into a modern urban center that reflects Japan's economic growth, industrialization, and social changes. Its development has been marked by rapid urbanization, becoming a hub for commerce, culture, and innovation.
Urbanization: Urbanization is the process by which an increasing percentage of a population comes to live in cities and urban areas, transforming the social, economic, and physical landscape. This shift often leads to changes in lifestyle, labor dynamics, and governance as populations migrate from rural regions to urban centers, influenced by various factors such as industrial growth and social reforms.
World War I: World War I was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918, involving many of the world's great powers divided into two main alliances: the Allies and the Central Powers. This catastrophic war had profound economic and social effects, reshaping international relations, leading to significant economic growth in some sectors due to wartime production, and triggering social changes as nations mobilized their populations for total war.
Yōga: Yōga refers to a style of Western-influenced painting that emerged in Japan during the late 19th century, characterized by the incorporation of European techniques and subjects. This art form represents a significant cultural shift as Japan began to open up to Western ideas and aesthetics following the Meiji Restoration, reflecting the nation's economic growth and changing social dynamics.
Zaibatsu: Zaibatsu refers to large family-owned business conglomerates that played a significant role in Japan's economy from the late 19th century until the end of World War II. These powerful business entities dominated various sectors such as banking, manufacturing, and trade, significantly influencing economic growth and social changes in Japan. They were instrumental in the industrialization of Japan and its military buildup during the early 20th century, while also shaping the urban landscape through rapid economic developments and urbanization.
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