How did Japanese nationalism evolve during the Meiji period?

Japanese nationalism evolved during the Meiji period through modernisation, westernisation, and the establishment of a strong central government.

The Meiji period, which spanned from 1868 to 1912, was a time of significant change in Japan. The country was transitioning from a feudal society to a modern, industrialised nation. This period was marked by the restoration of practical imperial rule under Emperor Meiji, which led to the centralisation of power and the establishment of a strong central government. This shift in power structure played a crucial role in fostering Japanese nationalism, as it created a unified national identity and a sense of belonging among the Japanese people.

The Meiji government also embarked on a series of reforms aimed at modernising and westernising the country. These reforms, known as the Meiji Restoration, included the adoption of Western technology, the establishment of a Western-style education system, and the introduction of a constitution and a parliamentary system. The government's efforts to modernise and westernise the country were driven by a desire to catch up with the West and to protect Japan from Western imperialism. This sense of urgency and the desire to preserve Japan's independence further fuelled Japanese nationalism.

Moreover, the Meiji government promoted the idea of "kokutai" or national polity, which emphasised the unique qualities of Japan and its people. This concept was used to instil a sense of national pride and to differentiate Japan from other nations. The government also used Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan, to promote nationalism. Shinto was elevated to the status of a state religion, and the emperor was portrayed as a divine figure, further strengthening the sense of national unity.

In addition, the Meiji government pursued an aggressive foreign policy, which included the expansion of Japan's territories. The victories in the Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War boosted national pride and further strengthened Japanese nationalism.

In conclusion, Japanese nationalism evolved during the Meiji period through a combination of modernisation, westernisation, the establishment of a strong central government, the promotion of "kokutai", the use of Shinto to foster national unity, and an aggressive foreign policy.