Transcript Section 2, The Age of Emperors

The Age of Emperors
Section 2 Chapter 12 The Rise of Japan
Japan’s Early History
• Native religion – Shinto
• Kami – god or spirit found in natural
objects such as mountains and trees
Founding Myth
• Shinto myths explain how Japan came to
be ruled by an emperor.
• Sun Goddess vs. the Storm God
Founding Myth
• Ninigi
Jimmuisbecomes
sent to rule Japan
with three
Japan’s
first
gifts
emperor
A bronze mirror – symbol of truth
An iron sword – symbol of wisdom
A curved jewel – symbol of kindness
Japan’s Imperial Family
• Historians believe the Yamato grained
control of Japan
• Claimed descent from the royal “Sun” line
Prince Shotoku Unites Japan
• Regent – he governed the country in the
name of his aunt, the empress Suiko, who
was too young or otherwise unable to rule
Support for Buddhism
• Shotoku used the spread
of Buddhism to take power
away from the clan leaders
and unite Japan.
Borrowing From China
• Constitution, plan of
government, was
based on Confucian
and Buddhist thought
– Harmony, respect and
devotion
• Representatives are
sent to study arts and
government
– Adopt the Chinese
system
Later Reforms
• Taika Reform
– Everyone was a subject of the emperor
• Including lands and people control by clans
– Clan heads were given paid official jobs
• Taiho Code – leader of the Yamato clan
becomes emperor “son of Heaven”
Chapter 12: The Rise of Japan Section 2, The Age of Emperors
1. Create a double bubble contrasting the
rise of the emperors
2. List Prince Shotoku’s goals for the
Japanese Government.
3. What where the effects of the Taika
Reform?
4. How was Japan organized before the
emperors?