Choose a lens to see how Japan responded to the Cold War.
Which lens best explains Japan's Cold War choices?
Security dependence
- Japan relied on US bases and protection.
- Nakasone strengthened defence ties in the 1980s.
Japan's security depended on the alliance, so it stayed loyal.
It still refused a combat role and resisted burden sharing.
Economic priorities
- The Yoshida Doctrine put growth first.
- Trade with China and investment in Southeast Asia grew.
Japan used the alliance to focus on becoming rich.
Economic success caused friction with the USA.
Domestic constraints
- Article 9 and pacifism limited rearmament.
- The 1960 protests forced Kishi out.
Public opinion set limits on how far Japan would go.
The ruling party still kept the alliance at the core of policy.