Question

Why did the Meiji reformers want to modernize Japan?

A. to colonize weaker nations in Southeast Asia
B. to allow Western nations to protect them in trade negotiations
C. to compete with the economies and military of Western nations
D. to replace traditional practices with Western culture

Answer 1

The Meiji reformers sought to modernize Japan to compete with Western economies and militaries, protect sovereignty, and potentially establish an empire. The Meiji Restoration involved adopting Western technologies and reorganizing the government and military, positioning Japan as a modern power.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Meiji reformers desired to modernize Japan principally to compete with the economies and military of Western nations. This modernization effort was triggered by Japan's realization of the need to protect its sovereignty and independence from Western imperialism, witnessed through the pressures exerted on China and the forceful opening of Japan by Commodore Matthew Perry. The Meiji Restoration, which began in 1868, involved profound transformations, including adopting Western technology and industrial practices, building railroads, investing in shipbuilding, reorganizing the government, and dismantling the traditional samurai class in favor of a modern, conscripted army.

Japan's push towards modernization was informed by a keen understanding that to avoid Western domination, it had to embrace similar economic, industrial, and military capabilities that the great powers of Europe and North America boasted. The Japanese leadership observed that industrialization often precipitated the creation of empires, and they sought to expand their influence by establishing their presence in regions such as Korea and Manchuria. Modernization was not only about defense but also about gaining the ability to project power and participate in the imperialist pursuits of the era.

Answer 2

C. to compete with the economies and military of Western nations

The Meiji Reformers wanted to modernize Japan in order to make it competitive in a changing world so as to compete with Western powers. Consequently, Tokugawa shôgun who ruled Japan in the feudal period was deposed and the emperor was restored to the supreme position.