By the early 1700s , cities and commerce flourish. A growing merchant class enjoys Kabuki and Bunraku theater. Japan accepts the U.S. demands and opens its door for the first time in two centuries. Dispossessed bushi become soldiers, policemen, and teachers with fall of feudal system and political reform. New national policy is to make Japan a rich and powerful country, to prevent invasion by Western powers.
Emphasis is on building a strong military and strengthening industries.
Japan expands economic base within Asia and the Pacific. Prospering businessmen support Liberal party government, broadening political participation. Universal manhood suffrage begun in 1925 . Japan experiences World War II and its aftermath, as well as economic recovery. Manchuria taken over in 1931 .