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Dec 17, 2025
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7th Grade Social Studies - WW2 Japanese Imperialism Notes
Catalina Collazos
@catalinacollazos9
1 / 3
Origins of Japanese Nationalism and Militarism
Ever wonder how Japan went from isolated island nation to major military power? It all started in the mid-19th century when Japan opened to the world. After signing the Treaty of Kanagawa with the USA, Japan embarked on a remarkable transformation under Emperor Meiji with the goal of becoming a "rich country, strong military."
Japan's growing nationalism came from several key factors. The country wanted equality with Western powers and believed in its destiny as the leader of Asia. Japan also needed raw materials and markets to support its growing economy. These needs, combined with concerns about strategic security, fueled Japan's imperialist ambitions.
The victory in the Sino-Japanese War boosted Japanese confidence, though frustration followed when Western powers forced Japan to give up territory. This experience only strengthened Japan's determination to build military power. The Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) brought further success, earning Japan control over Korea and parts of Manchuria.
Did you know? Japan's victory in the Russo-Japanese War was the first time in modern history that an Asian nation defeated a European power, earning admiration from other Asian countries seeking independence from Western colonialism.
World War I proved incredibly beneficial for Japan. While fighting was limited in Asia, Japan gained German colonial territories and filled market gaps left by European powers. The Treaty of Versailles granted Japan Pacific islands and economic privileges in China, establishing Japan as a major economic and naval power in the Pacific.
Japan Between Peace and Expansion (1920s-1930s)
The 1920s began with Japan pursuing internationalism and democracy. The "Taisho Democracy" period saw prime ministers leading from political parties instead of elite military circles. Japan joined the League of Nations and participated in global treaties like the Washington Treaty System, which limited naval expansion.
But this peaceful approach faced serious challenges. Japan struggled with economic problems after a brief post-war boom ended in 1921. The gap between urban and rural areas widened dramatically, and when the Great Depression hit, Japan's export-dependent economy suffered terribly. These economic troubles gave fuel to nationalist arguments.
Political instability in China further complicated matters. Japan saw opportunity in China's weakness and wanted economic benefits similar to what Western powers enjoyed there. The Chinese Civil War between the Nationalists (GMD) and Communists (CCP) created additional instability that Japan sought to exploit.
Remember this: The economic crisis of the 1930s was a turning point. When people face hardship, extreme political ideologies often gain popularity.
By 1931, Japan's foreign policy had become dominated by growing nationalism and military influence. Different perspectives exist on whether war with the United States was inevitable or forced by U.S. actions. Japan's fully modernized military, combined with widespread belief in Japan's "destiny" to lead Asia, created powerful momentum for expansion. The military began acting independently of the civilian government, as shown when the Kwantung Army seized Manchuria in 1931 without government approval.
The Road to Pearl Harbor (1932-1941)
After seizing Manchuria, Japan faced international criticism and isolation. Rather than backing down, Japan abandoned international cooperation and left the League of Nations in 1933. The military's influence in government grew as two major military factions competed for control: the more radical Kodo-ha (Imperial Way) faction and the more strategic Tosei-ha (Control) faction.
Between 1932-1936, Japan experienced political assassinations and plots that destabilized the government. After the February 1936 revolt by Kodo-ha officers failed, the Tosei-ha faction gained control. Prime Minister Hirota Koki made compromises that essentially handed government control to the military, and by 1937, the civilian government couldn't prevent the invasion of China.
The Sino-Japanese War that began in July 1937 proved more difficult than Japan expected. After capturing Beijing and Nanjing (where Japanese forces committed horrific atrocities), Japan hoped China would surrender. Instead, Chinese nationalism strengthened resistance. By November 1938, Japan announced a "New Order in East Asia," but the war continued to drain resources.
Critical turning point: The U.S. oil embargo of 1941 backed Japan into a corner. Without oil imports, Japan faced a choice: retreat from its conquests or secure new resources through further expansion.
The final steps toward war came rapidly. Japan signed the Tripartite Pact with Germany and Italy in 1940 and seized European colonies in Asia as Nazi Germany conquered Europe. When negotiations with the U.S. failed, Japan decided on a surprise attack. On December 7, 1941, Japanese bombers struck Pearl Harbor, killing 2,403 Americans. Simultaneously, Japan launched attacks on Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, and other territories. The Pacific War had begun.
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Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
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The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
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Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
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This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
7th Grade Social Studies - WW2 Japanese Imperialism Notes
Catalina Collazos
@catalinacollazos9
Japanese expansionism in East Asia from the late 19th century to 1941 transformed Japan from an isolated nation into a powerful empire. This journey from modernization to militarism culminated in Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor and entry into World War... Show more
Origins of Japanese Nationalism and Militarism
Ever wonder how Japan went from isolated island nation to major military power? It all started in the mid-19th century when Japan opened to the world. After signing the Treaty of Kanagawa with the USA, Japan embarked on a remarkable transformation under Emperor Meiji with the goal of becoming a "rich country, strong military."
Japan's growing nationalism came from several key factors. The country wanted equality with Western powers and believed in its destiny as the leader of Asia. Japan also needed raw materials and markets to support its growing economy. These needs, combined with concerns about strategic security, fueled Japan's imperialist ambitions.
The victory in the Sino-Japanese War boosted Japanese confidence, though frustration followed when Western powers forced Japan to give up territory. This experience only strengthened Japan's determination to build military power. The Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) brought further success, earning Japan control over Korea and parts of Manchuria.
Did you know? Japan's victory in the Russo-Japanese War was the first time in modern history that an Asian nation defeated a European power, earning admiration from other Asian countries seeking independence from Western colonialism.
World War I proved incredibly beneficial for Japan. While fighting was limited in Asia, Japan gained German colonial territories and filled market gaps left by European powers. The Treaty of Versailles granted Japan Pacific islands and economic privileges in China, establishing Japan as a major economic and naval power in the Pacific.
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Japan Between Peace and Expansion (1920s-1930s)
The 1920s began with Japan pursuing internationalism and democracy. The "Taisho Democracy" period saw prime ministers leading from political parties instead of elite military circles. Japan joined the League of Nations and participated in global treaties like the Washington Treaty System, which limited naval expansion.
But this peaceful approach faced serious challenges. Japan struggled with economic problems after a brief post-war boom ended in 1921. The gap between urban and rural areas widened dramatically, and when the Great Depression hit, Japan's export-dependent economy suffered terribly. These economic troubles gave fuel to nationalist arguments.
Political instability in China further complicated matters. Japan saw opportunity in China's weakness and wanted economic benefits similar to what Western powers enjoyed there. The Chinese Civil War between the Nationalists (GMD) and Communists (CCP) created additional instability that Japan sought to exploit.
Remember this: The economic crisis of the 1930s was a turning point. When people face hardship, extreme political ideologies often gain popularity.
By 1931, Japan's foreign policy had become dominated by growing nationalism and military influence. Different perspectives exist on whether war with the United States was inevitable or forced by U.S. actions. Japan's fully modernized military, combined with widespread belief in Japan's "destiny" to lead Asia, created powerful momentum for expansion. The military began acting independently of the civilian government, as shown when the Kwantung Army seized Manchuria in 1931 without government approval.
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The Road to Pearl Harbor (1932-1941)
After seizing Manchuria, Japan faced international criticism and isolation. Rather than backing down, Japan abandoned international cooperation and left the League of Nations in 1933. The military's influence in government grew as two major military factions competed for control: the more radical Kodo-ha (Imperial Way) faction and the more strategic Tosei-ha (Control) faction.
Between 1932-1936, Japan experienced political assassinations and plots that destabilized the government. After the February 1936 revolt by Kodo-ha officers failed, the Tosei-ha faction gained control. Prime Minister Hirota Koki made compromises that essentially handed government control to the military, and by 1937, the civilian government couldn't prevent the invasion of China.
The Sino-Japanese War that began in July 1937 proved more difficult than Japan expected. After capturing Beijing and Nanjing (where Japanese forces committed horrific atrocities), Japan hoped China would surrender. Instead, Chinese nationalism strengthened resistance. By November 1938, Japan announced a "New Order in East Asia," but the war continued to drain resources.
Critical turning point: The U.S. oil embargo of 1941 backed Japan into a corner. Without oil imports, Japan faced a choice: retreat from its conquests or secure new resources through further expansion.
The final steps toward war came rapidly. Japan signed the Tripartite Pact with Germany and Italy in 1940 and seized European colonies in Asia as Nazi Germany conquered Europe. When negotiations with the U.S. failed, Japan decided on a surprise attack. On December 7, 1941, Japanese bombers struck Pearl Harbor, killing 2,403 Americans. Simultaneously, Japan launched attacks on Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, and other territories. The Pacific War had begun.
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What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user