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Political and economic challenges, 1919 to 31
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In the 1920s Japan became more democratic, but disasters, unrest and the Great Depression weakened its governments.
Politics
In 1925 all men over 25 gained the vote (universal male suffrage).
In the same year the Peace Preservation Law (Public Security Preservation Law) banned groups that wanted to change the political system or abolish private property, targeting communists and radicals.
A labour movement grew, with strikes and unions.
In the same year the Peace Preservation Law (Public Security Preservation Law) banned groups that wanted to change the political system or abolish private property, targeting communists and radicals.
A labour movement grew, with strikes and unions.
The Great Kanto Earthquake, 1923
A huge earthquake and fires destroyed much of Tokyo and Yokohama, killing over 100,000 people.
Rebuilding was costly, and there were attacks on Korean residents amid rumours.
Rebuilding was costly, and there were attacks on Korean residents amid rumours.
The Depression
The Great Depression (from 1929) hit Japan hard: silk exports to the USA collapsed and farmers suffered.
Many people blamed party politicians and big business, and turned to the army and nationalists who promised strength.
Many people blamed party politicians and big business, and turned to the army and nationalists who promised strength.
Why did the Depression weaken support for party government in Japan?
- Silk exports collapsed and rural poverty grew.
- Politicians seemed corrupt and linked to big business.
- Many people turned to the army and nationalists instead.
Answer: Economic suffering made people lose faith in politicians and look to the army.
1925: universal male suffrage and the Peace Preservation Law. A labour movement grew. The Great Kanto Earthquake (1923) devastated Tokyo. The Depression (from 1929) wrecked silk exports and farming, turning many towards the army and nationalists.
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