The History of Japan (The Greenwood Histories of the Modern Nations) by Louis G. Perez

by Louis G. Pérez

Every school and public library should update its resources on Japan with this engagingly written and succinct narrative history covering prehistoric times through 1997. This history, based on the most recent scholarship, provides a chronological narrative examining the political, cultural, philosophical, and religious continuities in Japan's long, rich history in an exploration of why the Japanese are who they are today. Unlike earlier histories of Japan, it brings into sharp focus a discussion of women and other previously ignored subjects. It also provides a timeline of events in Japanese history, a glossary of Japanese terms, biographical sketches of important figures, and a bibliographic essay of interest to students and general readers. The first three chapters examine the prehistoric and early feudal foundations of Japan's unique culture. Perez, an expert on Japanese history, places special emphasis on the development and flowering of the religious and cultural aspects of Japanese society. The next three chapters focus on the foundation of Japanese political thought―the basis of Japan's late 19th century modernization. Two chapters cover Japan's descent into the Valley of militarism, ultra-nationalism, and World War II, followed by the American occupation and the re-inventing of Japanese culture. The final two chapters detail Japan's struggle from the 1970s through 1997 with a new global identity―that of the world's most productive industrial economy.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Japan, Japanese History, Japanese Literature

Hardcover

First published June 30, 1998

Reviews

[Connie G · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The History of Japan" is aimed at students and the general public interested in a concise history of Japan. The beginning of the book discusses the geography of the island nation which has to import over 85% of its total energy from abroad, as well as large quantities of iron ore, many minerals, and many agricultural goods. (In modern times, Japan has become known for exporting its excellent industrial and technical products, and automobiles.) The land is beautiful--but mountainous, volcanic, and unstable with frequent earthquakes. Much of it is too steep for farming or housing so Japan has a very high density population on its usable land. Its treacherous oceans kept the Japanese isolated from other Asians for much of its history. It was a great way to start the book since there were multiple times that Japan's geography had a large impact on its history.

The book covers Japanese history from prehistoric times up until 1997 with more detail in the Meiji Era and later. There is also a newer edition available, but I was reading a library book. The book includes a timeline of historical events and an excellent glossary of Japanese terms that I used frequently. The only illustrations were three maps. I especially appreciated that the author included quite a bit of information about women's issues, religion, and culture in addition to politics and trade. It's an interesting basic book for the general reader. There are plenty of longer books available if someone wants to do more in-depth reading about Japan. 3.5 stars.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

While written in a (mostly) compelling style, this book is a waste of time. At times biased, and at times including, if not incorrect facts, then at least misinformation, the author does not capture a full representation of Japan or its history.

[Ayu · Rating 4 out of 5]

A few minor errors that I knew of, but overall a great introductory book on the subject.

[Anna · Rating 2 out of 5]

While this title is nearly 30 years old and shows it, the underlying sarcasm and poor attempts at relating to the reader made this an unfortunate first foray into general histories of Japan.

[Caleb Beers · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good survey of Japanese history. Beginning in prehistory, this book details Japan's early shift from a matriarchal culture to a patriarchal one, and speculates that the militarization of Japan's culture in the early medieval period is what has shaped the Japanese emphasis on discipline and duty to this day. I was especially fascinated by some of the innovations that took place during the Tokugawa period, such as the Bunraku puppets that take three puppeteers to operate.

If you already know a lot about the history of Japan, I wouldn't recommend this book. You won't learn anything new. But I came in as a complete neophyte, and left with a decent amount of knowledge. Recommended.

[William Blair · Rating 4 out of 5]

A full measure of not-too-deep Japanese History. Someone who's curious or interested will enjoy reading this book. I catch some of the old Japanese films on IFC from time to time, and this book sets the events depicted therein in historical perspective. Not exactly a light read, but you can treat it that way if there are certain periods that simply do not interest you.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very simple history book about Japan from the Jomon people to about 2008 it seems. I was amused by finding a few typos here and there. I wished the book had a section about geishas but alas, I think they were only mentioned once or twice (and unfortunately in reference to having a sexual affair with someone which was extremely rare for geishas).

[Valerie Sherman · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I had History of Religion in Japan with Prof. Perez, and he assigned this book, which he wrote, and he told us that he donates all the proceeds to the ACLU because he doesn't need any more money. That is awesome.

[Yosua · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just for fun!

[Regina Hunter · Rating 3 out of 5]

everything is very basic and details about WWII from Japanese perspective are missing (at least not the ones I looked for.

[Erik Hitechew · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed what I read of this book, but I wish the second edition was listed here.

[Alexis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Informational but outdated at the same time