Fighting Japan's Cold War: Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone and His Times

Yasuhiro Nakasone, a prominent postwar Japanese politician, is examined in this book through the lens of international politics and media assessments, revealing his innovative conservative approach and the governance of the Liberal Democratic Party during the Cold War era.

Format: Hardback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 13 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Yasuhiro Nakasone, a prominent postwar politician in Japan, held the position of prime minister for over five years during the 1980s. This book, while primarily focusing on his biography, delves into the broader realm of Japanese postwar politics by intertwining international relations and media assessments of Nakasone. Nakasone, known for his innovative conservatism, challenged the traditional conservative mainstream and this book offers insights into the governance of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) from both domestic and foreign policy perspectives.

The Nakasone government played a pivotal role in the final phase of the Cold War era of LDP factional politics, marking a significant transition towards the subsequent mainstream faction system. However, it is important to reassess Nakasone's legacy, recognizing that there is much more to him than the popular portrayal of him as a far-right hawk advocating for autonomous self-defense and an opportunistic leader of a small faction. It is crucial to place his era in its proper historical context, considering the broader political and social developments of the time.

During his tenure as prime minister, Nakasone implemented various policies that had a lasting impact on Japan. He pursued economic reforms, including the "bubble economy" and the "big bang" economic strategy, which aimed to stimulate growth and create jobs. Nakasone also played a significant role in improving Japan's relations with the United States, particularly through the signing of the Security Treaty in 1979.

However, Nakasone's administration was not without its controversies. He was criticized for his response to the 1989 earthquake and the subsequent nuclear crisis, which led to the release of radioactive material into the environment. Nakasone's support for the controversial "Yoshiki" program, which aimed to promote Japanese nationalism and revise the country's constitution, also drew criticism.

Despite these challenges, Nakasone remains a significant figure in Japanese political history. His legacy is shaped by his innovative conservatism, his efforts to promote economic growth and improve relations with the United States, and his controversial policies. This book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of Japanese postwar politics and the role of Nakasone in shaping the country's political landscape.

Weight: 670g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032399096