The History of Japan in a Nutshell: From the Prehistoric Period to Modern Day

Book excerpt: Without Japan, you probably wouldn't have your car... but how much do you really know about this fascinating country's rich and colorful history? For a country that's brought us household names as diverse as Nintendo, Toyota, and Sony, shockingly little is known about Japan's rich and complex history. Like many westerners, you may have a love of Japanese culture and cuisine. Perhaps you wait longingly for the latest tech developments to flood out of the country... but how much do you really know about how Japan got to be where it is today? Perhaps you learned a little about Japan in high school, but the chances are, you didn't get much further back than World War II -- have you ever wondered how it fought its way back to become the powerful country it is today? Japan is a hugely resilient country, and much of that can be attributed to its people -- which is perhaps why we're so fascinated by its pop culture, drawn to the martial arts, and captivated by the anime and manga that makes its way to the West. But behind every element of the culture, we're drawn to today, there's a little piece of history... think about ninja and martial arts -- clearly, these are skills with deep historic roots. And if you know anything about the Samurai, you already have a tiny piece of the puzzle. But that puzzle is much more complex than you probably realize, and to understand Japan, you need to understand its history -- starting right back at the paleolithic period. In The History of Japan in a Nutshell, you'll be guided through the most important timelines in Japan's history -- from 35,000 BC right through to the present day. You'll discover: The complete story of the emergence of one of the world's most resilient nations A deeper understanding of the Samurai and their place within the class structure The wars that shaped Japan How Buddhism arrived in Japan (and how it spread after a shaky start) A closer look at feudal Japan The most influential families in Japanese history The real story behind the ninja (the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles may be fictional, but they draw on legends based on real medieval traditions) Japan's heroic struggle free from the power of the West A comprehensive look at how Japan rose to economic power in Asia The devastating effects of World War II -- and how Japan clawed its way back to strength The fascinating story behind Japan's popular name, 'The Land of the Rising Sun' The dark history behind the famous 'Rabbit Island' Fun facts about Japan -- from earthquakes to fake food, and everything in between Key cultural details you'll definitely want to know if you plan to visit Japan (including the one innocent thing that might have connotations with a criminal underworld) And much more. Whether you're a self-confessed Japanophile, or you simply want to enrich your knowledge, The History of Japan in a Nutshell will open your eyes to one of the most complex national histories in the world. Everything we love about Japan was born out of a rich and nuanced past -- and it's all here, just waiting to be soaked up. If you're ready to broaden your horizons and truly see The Land of The Rising Sun, then scroll up and click "Add to Cart" right now.