Paths to Modernisation

Creation of an industrial economy, Building a colonial empire, Annexing Taiwan in 1895

Japan modernised by building an industrial economy and a colonial empire. Taiwan was incorporated in 1895, while the emperor remained central to the new state.

It was divided into over 250 domains ruled by daimyo, The shogun exercised power over domain lords, Edo was the capital of the shogunate

Japan had over 250 domains under daimyo, the shogun controlled the lords, and Edo was the shogunal capital.

Rich country, strong army

The Meiji government used 'fukoku kyohei', meaning rich country, strong army.

First railway line between Tokyo and Yokohama, built 1870-72, Modern banking institutions launched in 1872, Agricultural tax used to raise funds

Japan modernised transport, finance and revenue by building its first railway, launching banking institutions and raising funds through agricultural tax.