The Struggle for Freedom: Advocating for Women’s Rights
The push for liberalism in Japan extended to calls for gender equality, with some intellectuals advocating for voting rights for women. This progressive stance challenged traditional gender roles and underscored the broader movement towards democratization and social reform.
Despite facing resistance, these advocates paved the way for greater gender equality and political participation in Japan.
Chapter 7: ‘Westernisation’ and ‘Tradition’| Class 11 History Notes
For many Japanese intellectuals during the Meiji period, the West represented the pinnacle of civilization, and Japan’s future lay in emulating Western ideals. Fukuzawa Yukichi, a prominent Meiji intellectual, epitomized this perspective by advocating for Japan to “expel Asia” and adopt Western customs and values. This fervent embrace of Westernization was seen as essential for Japan’s modernization and global stature.
Let us learn more about “westernisation” and “tradition” in context of Japan!