Abstract
After surrendering in World War II, Japan's new American-crafted constitution forced the formerly imperialistic country into pacifism. In accordance with Article 9 of the constitution, Japan was to be completely demilitarized and was therefore barred from keeping a standing military of its own. Over the course of the seven decades that have passed since the implementation of Supreme Commander MacArthur’s nonviolent constitution, Japan has slowly regained military strength. Rather than being the direct result of domestic politics and civic wishes, however, the rearmament of Japan has come as a result of foreign influences. Namely, the United States, North Korea, and China have forced the docile country to recoup its former martial power. Without these three countries’ actions over the years, Japan would never have had the backing or reasoning to rearm itself. The intent of this thesis is to explore the various actions that these three countries have taken that have led to Japan’s remilitarization. By taking a historical and chronological approach, this thesis will examine the actions each country has taken since the end of World War II and how they have gone on to spur Japan’s rearmament. Actions, such as domestic policy changes, military activities, and public announcements by the three countries, will be analyzed alongside Japan’s reactionary policies and responses.
Thesis Completion
2017
Semester
Fall
Thesis Chair/Advisor
Sadri, Houman A.
Degree
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
College
College of Sciences
Department
Political Sciences
Degree Program
International and Global Studies
Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
Language
English
Access Status
Open Access
Release Date
December 2017
Recommended Citation
Lee, Allison, "Foreign Influences on Contemporary Japanese Remilitarization: The United States, North Korea, and China" (2017). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 254.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/honorstheses/254