This segment discusses the origins of the Industrial Revolution in England and its spread to Asia, particularly Japan. It highlights the disruption traditional societies faced as they encountered the military might of industrialized nations, with Japan observing the defeats of China and fearing a similar fate.
"The industrial revolution started in England or Britain more generally in the late 18th century. It spreads to the continent after the Napoleonic wars died down at the beginning of the 19th century. B..."
This segment discusses the origins of the Industrial Revolution in England and its rapid spread to Asia, particularly Japan. It highlights the disruptive effects on traditional societies, exemplified by Japan's observation of China's defeats in war, leading to a sense of urgency about their own vulnerability to Western powers.
"The industrial revolution started in England or Britain more generally in the late 18th century. It spreads to the continent after the Napoleonic wars died down at the beginning of the 19th century. B..."
In this segment, the focus shifts to Japan's strategic assessment of the threat posed by Western imperial powers. Unlike China, Japan recognizes the need to westernize its institutions to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests, setting the stage for its own imperial ambitions.
"and that Western citizens in China or Japan in these treaty ports would not be subjected to Chinese or Japanese law, but home country law. And when Chinese and Japanese citizens were in Europe or the ..."
In this segment, Japanese leaders assess the threat posed by Western imperial powers and the need for modernization. They conclude that to protect their national interests, Japan must westernize its institutions and eventually pursue an empire, reflecting their understanding of what constitutes a great power in the 19th century.
"and Japanese citizens were in Europe or the United States, they most certainly were not dealing with home country law. They were dealing with US or Western law. So, it was not reciprocal in any way. I..."