Why did Japan invade Manchuria in 1931?

Japan invaded Manchuria in 1931 to secure natural resources and establish a buffer zone against Soviet Russia.

In the early 20th century, Japan was a rapidly industrialising nation with limited natural resources. Manchuria, a region in Northeast China, was rich in resources such as coal and iron, which were essential for Japan's industrial growth. The invasion was therefore partly motivated by Japan's desire to secure these resources. The Japanese government and military believed that by controlling Manchuria, they could ensure a steady supply of resources for their industries.

Moreover, Japan was also concerned about the potential threat from Soviet Russia. The Japanese had fought a war with Russia in 1904-1905, and there was a lingering fear of Russian expansionism. Manchuria, with its strategic location, was seen as a potential buffer zone that could protect Japan from a possible Soviet invasion. By establishing control over Manchuria, Japan hoped to strengthen its strategic position in Northeast Asia.

The invasion was also influenced by domestic factors within Japan. The 1920s and early 1930s were a period of political instability in Japan, with frequent changes in government and growing influence of the military. The invasion of Manchuria was largely orchestrated by the Kwantung Army, a unit of the Japanese Imperial Army stationed in Manchuria. The Kwantung Army acted largely independently of the civilian government in Tokyo, and its actions in Manchuria were driven by a combination of strategic considerations and a desire for military glory.

The invasion marked the beginning of Japan's aggressive expansion in East Asia, which would eventually lead to its involvement in the Second World War. It also marked a significant shift in Japan's foreign policy, from a focus on diplomacy and international cooperation to a more militaristic and expansionist approach. The invasion of Manchuria was a clear violation of international law, and it was condemned by the international community. However, the League of Nations, the precursor to the United Nations, was unable to take effective action to stop the invasion, which further emboldened Japan in its expansionist policies.