Unit 3

From Isolation to Adaptation

Targets
Skill Builders

Lesson 2

To what extent did the changes made during the Meiji Restoration affect the lives of Japanese citizens?

  • Meiji
  • oligarchy

When he was 16 years old, Prince Mutsuhito was made emperor of Japan. He selected a new name for himself – Meiji – which means enlightened ruler.


Japan went through many changes in the next three years.

This period was called the Meiji Restoration because Meiji was restored to his rightful place as the leader of Japan. Meiji and his new group of leaders implemented tremendous change in Japan.

Prince Mutsuhito (Emperor Meiji)


Watch

Click on the coloured tabs to access the links to view the following videos.

Emperor Meiji saw himself as a modern leader. He made changes that he thought were necessary for Japan. The changes affected the Japanese people in many ways.

Watch the video, Meiji Japan about the changes during the Meiji Restoration.

Start watching the video at 3:04. Stop the video at 5:38.

Watch the video, The Satsuma Rebellion to learn about the last of the samurai.

The Satsuma Rebellion