Gustave Tuck Lecture Theatre, University College London,
Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT
3.00 – 8.00 pm Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Meiji Restoration
5.00 pm
‘WHEN EAST AND WEST COLLIDED: FLASHPOINTS ON THE ROAD TO THE MEIJI RESTORATION’: illustrated talk
The Meiji Restoration was actually a revolution, transforming Japan from a feudal to a modern society. I’ll explore the causes and consequences in a swashbuckling tale of swords, samurai and regime change – including the pivotal role of the British.
Free but registration essential
In 1868, Tokugawa Shogun, who had been ruling Japan, lost his power and his solider “Samurai” government was demolished and the emperor was restored to the supreme position. This was not only a political transformation that created a more democratic government, but also a cultural and industrial revolution. Meiji Restoration (Meiji-ishin) laid foundation to modern Japan, which then significantly developed to become one of the most influential counties in the world as we know today. UCL alumni who came from Yamaguchi Prefecture (Choshu-Five) and Kagoshima Prefecture (Satsuma-19) had a significant contribution during this development. This year, we celebrate 150 Year Anniversary of Meiji Restoration.