The History of Japan

by Louis G. Pérez

Louis G. Perez revisits Japan's turbulent past and recent events in the past decade and 21st Century in this revised and fully expanded second edition of The History of Japan, a must-have for all high school and public libraries. This essential resource provides readers with a comprehensive look at Japan's long and rich history, examining its politics, culture, philosophy, and religious beliefs throughout the ages. Also included are up-to-date discussions of political situations, environmental issues, and even a glimpse into the cultural lives of the Japanese today. Students will learn who the Japanese are today, and how the past has shaped their contemporary society. An updated timeline, appendices, and glossary, along with an illustrative bibliographical essay that includes both print and electronic sources, round out this valuable reference tool.

Roughly the same size as the state of California, the island nation of Japan is one of the world's most densely populated nations-not to mention an economic powerhouse and a mecca of advanced technology. But the Land of the Rising Sun did not always lead the world with its success in the automobile industry, innovative electronics, and powerful stock market. Louis G. Perez revisits Japan's turbulent past and recent events in the past decade and 21st Century in this revised and fully expanded second edition of The History of Japan, a must-have for all high school and public libraries. This essential resource provides readers with a comprehensive look at Japan's long and rich history, examining its politics, culture, philosophy, and religious beliefs throughout the ages. Also included are up-to-date discussions of political situations, environmental issues, and even a glimpse into the cultural lives of the Japanese today. Students will learn who the Japanese are today, and how the past has shaped their contemporary society. An updated timeline, appendices, and glossary, along with an illustrative bibliographical essay that includes both print and electronic sources, round out this valuable reference tool.

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

288 pages, 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