Falling incomes could make military promises appealing. But popularity alone does not explain why officers could ignore cabinet orders or stop a government from forming. Connect each cause to the change it helps explain.
Which explanations account for military appeal, and which show how the military gained power over government?
Hardship weakened trust in politicians
- During the Depression, falling silk prices reduced the income of producing households.
- Ultranationalists blamed party leaders and promised strength and resources through expansion.
Families struggling with rent and debt could become more willing to listen to leaders who promised a different solution. This helped military supporters attract an audience.
This explains appeal. It does not explain how the army could legally block a cabinet appointment or disobey a government order.
Victories made officers look effective
- Earlier victories over China and Russia built the military's reputation.
- In 1931, the Kwantung Army advanced in Manchuria despite the cabinet's restraint.
Supporters portrayed the gains as proof that the army could act decisively. The cabinet's failure to stop the advance made politicians look weak.
An admired victory can improve a reputation. It does not show how much support there was among different groups, or by itself explain control of cabinet appointments.
Violence and appointment rules restricted civilian action
- Prime Minister Inukai was assassinated in 1932.
- In 1937, the army stopped Ugaki forming a cabinet by refusing to supply the required army minister.
Violence made resistance dangerous. The appointment rule supplied a separate, practical way to stop an unwanted government from taking office.
These events show how power could be exercised. Hardship and military prestige help explain why military claims found an audience beyond the armed forces.