Lecture 16

Pan-Asianism

"All eight corners of the world under one roof" (hakko ichiu - literally "eight cords, one roof") Who: Japan's divine mission to bring all nations under 1 roof, so all humanity can share its advantages What: Two sentiments regarding Pan-Asianism: 1) an alliance of Asians based on the principle of equality (equivalent to the western race) and 2) a relationship in which there was a domination by a single country that imposed itself to all others. When: Idea became a political reality in 1940 Where: Pacific World regions Why: Early 20th century, growing belief in Japan argued that it was foolish to believe that close identification with the West would solve the problem of the Pacific World • Pan Asianist claimed Asians must learn to identify with other asians, and worry about their Asian future collective future; "Asia for Asians" Pan-Asianism, while presented as a matter of humanitarianism and establishing equality, was essentially an excuse for the Japanese to exercise their geo-political and economic motives Also: Although we may be different in terms of our languages and cultures, the fact that we were under Western rule is what brings us together and this is more important than our differences. Asians must learn to identify with other Asians. So What: The Greater East Asian Co-Prosperity Sphere, an effort to translate the Pan-Asian concept into a political reality was launched in 1940. Japan's occupation of numerous parts of the Pacific region led locals to realize that Pan-Asianism was not "Asia for Asians", but "Asia for the Japanese". Japan's imperialist actions led to greater tension in US-Japan relations.

Stimson Doctrine

Also known as non-recognition policy On January 7, 1932 Henry Stimson represented the US to respond to Japan's involvement in china. He declared that the US wouldn't recognize any situations/treaty that would impair the open door policy, achieved via aggression, and have been the result through the violation of China territory integrity.( linked to 9 power treaty). The doctrine was endorsed by league of nations. This was partially due to the fact that the capitalistic west was immersed in global depression and most leaders were focused on domestic policies. The US others were indifferent to the situation in Manchuria-- so it remained in Japanese hands. 4 years later lead to the second Sino-Japan war

Manchurian Incident

Also known as the Mukden incident September 18, 1931 Acting on their own, some Japanese officer set an explosion along the Japanese railroad, and claimed it as an act of Chinese sabotage. This was an attempt to take back control, to protect Japanese lives and properties. within 3 months Japanese military took direct control of Manchuria.

Nine Power Pact

Came into full effects in August 1925 signed by US, Britain, Japan, France, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Belgium, and China to affirm the sovereignty and territorial integrity of China

Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere

In 1940, launched by Tokyo as an attempt to bring Pan-Asianism into political reality. They envisioned an Asian economic block ruled by Japan, freed from Western powers. However, these "independent" but Japanese occupied territories were subjected to harsh(er) treatment just as European imperialism.

Manchukuo

Japanese claimed the establishment of Independence for the State of Manchukuo (state of the Manchus) on March 9, 1932. Became Japan's puppet state to protect Japanese interests. This occupation went smoothly so Japan was encouraged to expand its territories. Next couple of years mid 1930 Japanese made their way to Beijing.

Pu Yi

Last emperor of Qing dynasty didn't have a job, so was designated to be Kangde Emperor of Manchukuo 1906-1967

Four Power Pact

On December 13, 1921 signed by US, Britain, Japan, and France

Racial equality clause

Who: Proposed by Japan to the League of Nations What: A clause which called for the fair treatment of all peoples. Japan was only willing to accept the League if the other countries agreed to see Japan as an equal. When: April 11, 1919 Where: Paris Peace Conference Why: Japan did not welcome the idea of a League of Nations since they believed that such a league would perpetuate the current order (white man's world and the West); however, they recognized the importance of joining such a league and realized that Japan shouldn't be left out of something this important. Proposes the Racial Equality Clause as a ramification- calls for equality and fair treatment for all peoples. Japan will join if it's not regarded as second-class in the League. Strongly opposed by Australia, Britain, and the United States. Furthermore, racial attitudes in the US opposed Japan's proposal, so it was politically unwise for him to vote for the racial equality clause So What: The rejection of the proposal led to a strong and growing distrust of the West by Japan. Japan DID join the League of Nations and DID sign the Treaty of Versailles. Japan believed that the only way to attain equality was through force. They also believed that the international order was inherently biased against Asians

Five Power Naval Limitation Treaty

also known as Washington Naval Treaty of 1922 On February 6, 1922 signed by US, Britain, Japan, France, and Italy. goal was to prevent arms race by limiting naval construction

Marco Polo Bridge Incident

or "China Incident" On July 7, 1937 marked the start of WWII in Asia Clash between Japanese and Chinese troops on the bridge The US provide limited material support and loan to China. From 1937 - 1941 (until US joined the war) China was fighting Japan on its own