Question

Почему странам Запада не удалось Японию превратить ни в колонию, ни в полуколонию? Прошу дать подробный ответ​

Answer 1

Наибольшую выгоду для колонизации представляли страны с большой материальной и ресурсной базой. Япония была очень нищим государством, ни природных ресурсов, ни уникальных колониальных товаров, ни сильного сельского хозяйства. В том же регионе был более богатый Китай, который представлял намного большую выгоду. А в Японии кроме дешёвой рабочей силы ничего не было. Тратить силы и ресурсы ради колонизации Японии - сомнительная инвестиция.

Answer 2

Why did Western countries fail to turn Japan into a colony or semi-colony?

The Western countries, particularly the major powers, did not succeed in turning Japan into a colony or semi-colony due to several factors. These factors include Japan's strong national identity, its successful modernization efforts, its strategic location, and its ability to resist foreign influence.

1. Strong National Identity: Japan had a long history and a strong sense of national identity, which played a crucial role in its resistance to foreign domination. The Japanese people were proud of their culture, traditions, and independence, which made it difficult for Western powers to impose their control over the country.

2. Successful Modernization: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan underwent a rapid process of modernization and industrialization. The Meiji Restoration of 1868 brought about significant political, economic, and social reforms, enabling Japan to catch up with the Western powers in terms of technology, military strength, and economic development. This modernization effort made Japan a formidable force and allowed it to resist foreign domination.

3. Strategic Location: Japan's geographic location played a crucial role in its ability to resist colonization. Situated on a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, Japan was not easily accessible to foreign powers. Its distance from major Western powers made it challenging for them to establish and maintain a colonial presence in the country.

4. Ability to Resist Foreign Influence: Japan actively pursued a policy of selective borrowing from the West while maintaining its own cultural and political identity. The Japanese government implemented policies that allowed it to adopt Western technology and ideas while preserving its traditional values and institutions. This approach helped Japan maintain its independence and resist foreign control.

In summary, the Western countries failed to turn Japan into a colony or semi-colony due to Japan's strong national identity, successful modernization efforts, strategic location, and its ability to resist foreign influence. These factors combined to make Japan a formidable force that could not be easily dominated by Western powers.