131-039 The Rise of Modern Japan 1850s-1990s

Formerly available as 131-229/329. Students who have completed 131-229 or 131-329 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 12.5 points of first year history or Asian studies.

The overall purpose of this subject is to introduce the history of Japan from the mid to late 19th century to recent times. The emphasis is on what the emergence of 'modern' Japan has meant for the Japanese people and Japan's Asian neighbours. Broadly, the following topics will be examined and discussed: the opening of Japan; Japan's national revolution; the creation of the modern Japanese state; the rise of Japan's empire; the social costs of 'wealth and power;' the fate of Japanese liberalism and Marxism; militarism, ultranationalism and war; the Occupation; and Japan's postwar economic 'miracle.' Such topics will be addressed through methodologies of political, social, cultural, economic, imperial, ideological, and military history. Students who complete this subject should have a firm understanding of the influence of Japan's rise and emergence as a 'modern' state on late 19th and 20th century Asian history.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A research essay proposal of 150 words 10% (due mid-semester), a research essay of 2500 words 45% (due mid-semester), an essay of 1350 words 35% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.