Final answer:
As a result of the Meiji Restoration, Japan shifted from a feudal society to a centralized, modern state with equal citizens, abolished the samurai class, and pursued industrialization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The changes made to Japan’s traditional social structure as a result of the Meiji Restoration were significant and transformative. The feudal system was dismantled, and the daimyo were required to surrender their domains which were then reorganized into prefectures. This led to the abolition of the hierarchical class system, and all Japanese people were considered equal under the new structure. The samurai class was eventually abolished, causing samurai to transition into government bureaucracy and other professions. Additionally, Japan transitioned to a modern, centralized government and embraced industrialization, which included establishing a universally conscripted army and a revised tax system. These changes symbolized Japan's efforts to modernize and avoid being dominated by foreign powers.