The period between the 1930s to the 1970s impacted today's Japan and the world in many ways. How did people live during a time when significant changes took place throughout society? Gallery 6 looks at two themes of this period: its life and culture and the movement of society and the world surrounding it.
These themes will be presented through visual images such as films, commercials, and newscasts. models, and dioramas, and merchandise and publications from the period.
War and Peace
During the second half of the 19th century--when Japan appeared on the international scene led by Europe and the United States--and the first half of the 20th century, Japan experienced many wars such as the Sino-Japanese and Russo-Japanese wars during the Meiji period, World War I in the Taisho period, and the Asia-Pacific War in the Showa period. At that time, Japan’s modernization had yet to catch up with Europe and the United States; the national goal was to enhance the wealth and military strength of the country (fukoku kyohei). This came with a price, not only for Japan but also for other countries.
This section also focuses on the living conditions of people during the period of occupation, a turning point in Japan’s history: from the end of war to the coming into effect of the Treaty of Peace with Japan.
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The Postwar Lifestyle Revolution
Strong economic growth was a surprise in postwar Japan, from the middle of the 1950s to the beginning of the 1970s. It was supported mainly by chemical and heavy industries; large parts of the population streamed into cities from farming and fishing villages. A convenient and comfortable lifestyle, with electric appliances, was the beginning of urban life that led to modern society. Here, we look at the image and the meaning of "postwar Japan" by focusing on the mass culture of the time, including films, television programs, commercials, and magazines.
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