Hello young historians! Let's embark on a journey to learn about the fascinating transformation of Japan in the late 19th century and explore how education played a pivotal role in shaping the modern nation. Grab your time-traveling gear and let's dive into the past!

• Military Modernization: Just like in 19th century Russia, Japan needed an educated populace to train and equip a competitive army to rival Western powers.
• Shifting From Feudalism: Japan was moving away from centralized feudalism, characterized by a privileged samurai class, towards a state where ordinary citizens would be conscripted into the army.
• Basic Literacy: Soldiers needed to read orders and operate new technology. Universal literacy became crucial.

• A new system of elementary schooling was introduced in 1872.
• It wasn't free, so initial attendance was low.
• By 1876, only 46% of boys and 16% of girls attended school.

• Education was used as a tool to instill nationalism into the population.
• The Imperial Rescript on Education was introduced in 1890.
• Teachers and pupils had to memorize and recite the rescript every morning, an edict that remained in place until WWII.
• The rescript outlined the obligations of Japanese subjects of the emperor, including offering themselves courageously to the state in times of emergency and guarding the prosperity of the Imperial throne.

• According to historian Mikiso Hane, the purpose was to ensure that young children's minds were molded to go to battle shouting "Imperial Majesty Banzai" (Hane, Japan, A Short History, 2015, p. 90).
• This indoctrination fostered unwavering loyalty to the emperor and promoted nationalism.

• Children were taught that the Imperial Dynasty dated back to 660 BCE when Jimmu, the first emperor, ascended the throne.
• Each year on February 11th, this date was commemorated.
• Another important national holiday was Emperor Meiji's birthday on November 3rd.

Real-World Example: Just as the American Pledge of Allegiance promotes national loyalty in the U.S., Japan used the Imperial Rescript on Education to instill a sense of duty and loyalty in its citizens. The emphasis on education and national pride was crucial in transforming Japan into a modern nation and military power.

Education played a critical role in shaping modern Japan. By promoting universal literacy and nationalism through education, Japan was able to move away from feudalism, build a powerful military, and foster a sense of loyalty to the emperor among its citizens.

So, there you have it - the exciting story of education and its impact on Japan's transformation. Keep these notes handy as you continue your journey through the fascinating world of history!