Japan Since 1945 (Key Issues in Asian Studies, 15)

Concisely rendered, engagingly written, and thoughtful in its judgments, this short book is a most valuable interpretation of Japan’s remarkable history since the end of World War II. It surveys the dramatic changes in Japan’s society, politics, economy, international relations, and culture from defeat in World War II through the disasters of March 11, 2011. Dunscomb analyzes Japan’s postwar experience with balance and admirable clarity, writing in an accessible and fast-paced style that will be welcomed by students and teachers alike. This is by far the best short introduction to the history of contemporary Japan available for classroom use.

PAUL E. DUNSCOMB is Professor of East Asian History at the University of Alaska Anchorage and founding director of the UAA Confucius Institute. His specialty is modern Japanese history. He has a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College in television and radio, a master’s degree from the University at Albany in history, and a PhD in history from the University of Kansas.