Final answer:
Japan's development success can be attributed to its quick adoption of industrial capitalism post-feudalism and significant economic recovery after WWII, also due in part to U.S. aid and market access, which helped Japan become a high-tech leader and manufacturing powerhouse.
Step-by-step explanation:
Japan's development success during the last century can be most comprehensively explained by its rapid adoption of industrial capitalism after the fall of feudalism, combined with an impressive post-World War II reconstruction and growth. After WWII, Japan's economic recovery was significantly aided by U.S. assistance, including a $2 billion investment and preferential access to the U.S. consumer market. This support propelled Japan's focus on low-wage industries producing goods for export, especially to America. Over time, Japan transitioned from manufacturing cheap knock-offs to becoming a world leader in high technology and innovation.
Furthermore, Japan's pre-war actions, such as the industrialization during the Meiji Restoration and early 20th century expansions for resources in Formosa (Taiwan) and Korea, alongside participation in World War I, positioned it favorably as a competitor in the global marketplace. During the Taisho period, even though Japan faced natural and economic disasters, it began steps towards democracy which further solidified its internal organization. Post-World War I liberalism and labor strikes led to progressive political changes, and by 1945, Japan had emerged as Asia's economic superpower with a remarkable manufacturing sector comprising companies like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan that set a global production standard.
Japan's internal organization and strong centripetal dynamics have been pivotal in creating a highly functional and cohesive society, which focused on creating a manufacturing sector that catapulted the country's economy from devastation to financial success.