The Columbia Guide to Modern Japanese History

by Gary Allinson

Overview

Japan's transformation from an isolated society to a military empire and, after a crushing defeat in World War II, into one of the world's foremost economic powers is one of the most fascinating stories of modern history. Although much has been written about modern Japan, no reference book has analyzed its political, economic, social, and cultural history to render a holistic account of the sweeping changes Japan has undergone since 1850. Now, with The Columbia Guide to Modern Japanese History, Gary D. Allinson presents this much-needed learning resource for students of Japanese society and for lay readers seeking to better understand the economic powerhouse of East Asia during the 150 years that have catapulted it to international preeminence.

The Columbia Guide to Modern Japanese History is a unique work in which readers will find:

• a balanced narrative treating each facet of Japanese history—political, social, economic, and cultural—across four periods covering the years from 1850 to the present;

• an encyclopedia-style topical compendium including more than 150 entries on such key subjects as Japan's emperors, political leaders, business enterprises, social organizations, and leading writers;

• excerpts from important historical documents;

• a chronology and list of prime ministers, providing easy reference to important historical dates, periods, and people;

• an annotated guide to further research, including print, film, and electronic resources.

Readily accessible to all readers, Allinson's reference will be one that citizens, teachers, students, and academicians will consult often as they seek information on scores of topics. The Columbia Guide to Modern Japanese History will endure as a valuable reference and learning tool for many years to come.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780231111447
Publisher:	Columbia University Press
Publication date:	07/27/1999
Series:	Columbia Guides to Asian History
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	320
Product dimensions:	6.30(w) x 9.00(h) x 1.00(d)
Age Range:	18 - 17 Years

About the Author

Gary D. Allinson is the Ellen Bayard Weedon Professor of East Asian Studies at the University of Virginia. His many works on the social, economic, political, urban, and labor history of modern Japan include Japanese Urbanism, Suburban Tokyo, Political Dynamics in Contemporary Japan, and Japan's Postwar History.

Table of Contents

I: Historical Narrative
1. Preserving Autonomy, 1850—1889
2. Integrating the Nation, 1890—1931
3. Fighting for Development, 1932—1973
4. Adapting to Affluence, 1974—Present
II: Topical Compendium
1. Japan
2. Emperors
3. Political Leaders
4. Military Leaders
5. Business Leaders
6. Business Associations, Enterprises, and Firms
7. Bureaucracy
8. State-Guided Organizations
9. Political Parties
10. Opposition Movements
11. Education
12. Male Writers
13. Female Writers
III: Resource Guide
1. Printed Resources
2. Visual Resources
3. Electronic Resources

Editorial Reviews

In the Columbia Guide, Gary Allinson has given us an innovative and reliable narrative and usable reference tools for Japan's modern history. It has practical value as an introduction to the study of Japan and as a reference volume for Japanologists.

The Journal of Asian Studies - Thomas W. Burkman

This is a very good book... [Allinson's] historical narrative is excellent. It is spare in the trivia that hinder general readers, and rich in analysis and interpretation.

Journal of Asian History - Louis G. Perez

In the Columbia Guide, Gary Allinson has given us an innovative and reliable narrative and usable reference tools for Japan's modern history. It has practical value as an introduction to the study of Japan and as a reference volume for Japanologists.

— Thomas W. Burkman

The Journal of Asian Studies

This is a very good book... [Allinson's] historical narrative is excellent. It is spare in the trivia that hinder general readers, and rich in analysis and interpretation.

— Louis G. Perez

Journal of Asian History

This volume first provides a historical narrative addressing Japanese external relations, domestic political affairs, economic developments, social changes, and the characteristics of Japanese culture and ideas from 1850 on, followed by a compendium of information about the places, people, events, and terms used in the narrative. The last two parts consist of a detailed resource guide and an appendix presenting key historical documents and quantitative data. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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