Japan in context of the occupation regime after the World War II

Abstract

Presented paper discusses and analyzes developed events in Japan after the end of World War II. In particular, attention is focused on a period when, by the decision of the allied countries (USA, Great Britain, USSR), Japan was subordinated to the US occupation forces (1845-1952). First of all, it should be noted that Japan found itself in extremely difficult situation at the end of the war: as a result of the atomic bombings, most of the cities, commercial facilities and transport were destroyed, industry and agriculture suffered great losses. On top of all this, there were famines, epidemics, natural cataclysms, etc. Consequently, Japan was not able to solve the difficult political, socio-economical and other types of problems facing the country at that time. It was necessary to develop a fundamentally new strategy and tactics for the future development of the country, to carry out radical reforms. The US occupation forces under the command of General Douglas MacArthur were entrusted with the mission. Specific goals were set by the occupation regime established in Japan, among which the following were particularly important demilitarization of the country, restoration and strengthening of democratic trend in Japan, revival of economy, ensuring freedom of speech, belief and thought; protection of basic human rights. It should be emphasized that despite some disadvantages, over all the US occupation regime played a positive role in the history of Japan. This was clearly demonstrated after the end of the occupation regime, 30 when as a result of gaining political freedom, Japan began to develop with a giant leap and rise in the following years.