Meiji Restoration: The Opening of Japan
The Charter Oath
The Charter Oath was issued by Emperor Meiji in order to include the Japanese public in future decisions and to suppress any fears they might have about this rapid change.
The Charter Oath was given in 1868 and had 5 major parts:
The Charter Oath was given in 1868 and had 5 major parts:
- Deliberative council shall be widely established and all matters decided by public discussion.
- All classes, high and low, shall unite in vigorously carrying out the administration of affairs of state.
- The common people, no less then the civil and military officials, shall each be allowed to pursue his own calling so that there may be no discontent.
- Evil customs of the past shall be broken off and everything based upon the just laws of Nature.
- Knowledge shall be sought throughout the world so as to strengthen the foundations of imperial rule.
Charter Oath Document
This oath was significant because it was the first time in Japan when the common people had a say in politics, this approach was very progressive at the time for Japan. The oath was important in Japan's modernization because it led the way for new government structures and set in motion social and economic changes that would transform the country.
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