Constructing Empire: The Japanese in Changchun, 1905-45

Civilians were essential in building empires, as demonstrated by the book Constructing Empire, which explores how Japanese urban planners, architects, and other civilians contributed to constructing a modern colonial enclave in northeast China. The book examines the evolving nature of planning, architecture, economy, and society in Changchun and sheds light on changing attitudes toward empire and perceptions of national identity among Japanese in Manchuria in the first half of the twentieth century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2019
Publisher: University of British Columbia Press

Civilians have played a vital role in the establishment and growth of empires throughout history. In the case of Japan's expansion into Manchuria in the early 20th century, the involvement of Japanese urban planners, architects, and other civilians was significant. Constructing Empire: The Making of a Modern Colonial Enclave in Northeast China explores how these individuals contributed to the construction of a modern colonial enclave in northeast China, often with enthusiasm.

Japanese imperialism in Manchuria before 1932 followed a pattern similar to that of other imperialists in China. However, the Japanese later sought to surpass their rivals by transforming the city of Changchun into a grand capital for the puppet state of Manchukuo. This decision was driven by a desire to showcase Japan's power and influence on the global stage.

Bill Sewell's book, Providing a thematic assessment of the evolving nature of planning, architecture, economy, and society in Changchun, examines the key organizations involved in developing Japan's empire in Manchuria as part of broader efforts to assert Japan's place in the world order. The book sheds light on evolving attitudes toward empire and perceptions of national identity among Japanese in Manchuria in the first half of the 20th century.

The involvement of Japanese civilians in constructing Changchun as a grand capital for Manchukuo was driven by a combination of political, economic, and cultural factors. The Japanese government saw Manchuria as a valuable asset in its quest for empire-building and sought to modernize and develop the region. Urban planners and architects were tasked with designing and constructing a city that would be a symbol of Japanese power and modernity.

The city of Changchun was planned and constructed with a focus on efficiency and functionality. The Japanese government sought to create a city that would be a model for other colonial cities in the region and would serve as a hub for economic and political activity. The city was designed with wide streets, modern infrastructure, and a grid-like layout that made it easy to navigate and manage.

Architects and planners in Changchun were influenced by a range of architectural styles and trends, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese. They incorporated elements of these styles into their designs, creating a unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. Some of the most notable buildings in Changchun include the Great Hall of the People, the Changchun City Hall, and the Japanese-style Changchun Park.

In addition to the physical infrastructure, the Japanese government also sought to promote cultural and social development in Changchun. They established schools, libraries, and cultural centers to promote Japanese language and culture and to educate the local population about Japanese values and traditions. They also promoted sports and recreation, including the establishment of a baseball team and a football stadium.

The development of Changchun as a grand capital for Manchukuo was not without its challenges. The Japanese government faced resistance from local Chinese populations who opposed the Japanese occupation and the development of a colonial enclave. The Japanese also faced economic and logistical challenges, including the need to import food and other supplies from Japan and to manage a large population of foreign workers and soldiers.

Despite these challenges, the development of Changchun as a grand capital for Manchukuo was a significant achievement for the Japanese government. The city became a symbol of Japanese power and influence in the region and played a key role in the establishment and growth of Japan's empire in East Asia.

In conclusion, civilians have played a crucial role in the establishment and growth of empires throughout history. In the case of Japan's expansion into Manchuria in the early 20th century, the involvement of Japanese urban planners, architects, and other civilians was significant. Constructing Empire: The Making of a Modern Colonial Enclave in Northeast China explores how these individuals contributed to the construction of a modern colonial enclave in northeast China, often with enthusiasm. The book sheds light on evolving attitudes toward empire and perceptions of national identity among Japanese in Manchuria in the first half of the 20th century.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 165 x 236 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780774836524