A Military History of Japan: From the Age of the Samurai to the 21st Century

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

This comprehensive volume traces the evolution of Japanese military historyfrom 300 AD to present day foreign relationsand reveals how the country's cultural views of power, violence, and politics helped shape Japan's long and turbulent history of war. The legacy of Japanese warfare is steeped in honor, duty, and valor. Yet, some of the more violent episodes in this country's military history have tainted foreign attitudes toward Japan, oftentimes threatening the economic stability of the Pacific region. This book documents Japan's long and stormy history of war and military action, provides a thorough analysis of the social and political changes that have contributed to the evolution of Japan's foreign policy and security decisions, and reveals the truth behind the common myths and misconceptions of this nation's iconic war symbols and events, including samurais, warlords, and kamikaze attacks. Written by an author with military experience and insight into modern-day Japanese culture gained from living in Japan, A Military History of Japan: From the Age of the Samurai to the 21st Century examines how Japan's history of having warrior-based leaderships, imperialist governments, and dictators has shaped the country's concepts of war. It provides a complete military history of Japanfrom the beginning of the Imperial institution to the post-Cold War erain a single volume. This thoughtful resource also contains photos, maps, and a glossary of key Japanese terms to support learning.

Reviews

[P]rovides a useful summary for a general audience. . . . Recommended. * Choice *
A Military History of Japan is a timely work that will add studied moderation and critical analysis to the argument regarding the path on which the country is located now and down which it is likely to progress in the future. . . . For the casual reader, A Military History of Japan functions as a needed update. . . . For those with a professional interest in the country and its region, this book is a must-read, an enlightening facilitator in the current debate over Japan's place in Asia and the world. * Naval War College Review *

Author Bio

John T. Kuehn, PhD, is professor of military history at the United States Army Command and General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, KS, and adjunct professor for the United States Naval War College as well as Norwich University.