The Meiji Restoration

For hundreds of years, Japan was ruled by shoguns and kept apart from most of the world. In 1868, a young emperor named Meiji took power. He and his advisors decided to modernize Japan. In just a few decades, Japan became one of the most powerful countries in Asia.

Opening Up to the World

Before the Meiji era, Japan had been mostly closed to foreigners for over 200 years. When American ships arrived in 1853, Japan was forced to open its ports. Japanese leaders realized they needed to modernize quickly. They studied Western countries to learn new ideas.

A Modernized Japan

Japan built railroads, factories, and a modern army. Schools were opened for all children. The government created a constitution and a parliament. Japan grew so powerful that it won wars against China and Russia. It became the first modern industrial nation in Asia.

Fun Facts

• Emperor Meiji was only 15 years old when he came to power in 1868.
• Japan built its first railroad in 1872, just four years after the restoration began.
• The samurai class was officially ended during the Meiji era.

Did You Know?

Japan went from a feudal society with swords and samurai to a modern industrial nation in just about 30 years.