The Abe Legacy: How Japan Has Been Shaped by Abe Shinzo

The book offers a study of Abe Shinzō, Japan's longest-serving prime minister since the Meiji Era, who rose to power in 2012 and remained in office for nearly a decade despite seeking to conduct massive reforms. It seeks to answer three questions: how did he remain in power, what was his policy mix, and what is his legacy?

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

The book delves into the captivating political journey of Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzō (2012-2020). Abe's political ascent was facilitated by his predecessor, Koizumi Jun.ichirōō, and he appeared highly promising at the age of 51 when he assumed the position of the youngest Cabinet Secretariat chief. However, his tenure in power was short-lived, as he resigned after just one year. Nevertheless, Abe's political fortunes took a remarkable turn in 2012, when he was elected as the longest-serving prime minister in Japan's history since the end of the Meiji Era (1868-1912). During this period, Japan underwent a profound process of modernisation and westernisation, emerging as a significant military and imperialist power.

The book aims to address three fundamental questions. Firstly, how did Abe Shinzō manage to maintain his grip on power for nearly a decade in a country where prime ministers typically have much shorter terms, with some serving for only a single year? Despite his ambitious agenda of reforms, he remained in office. Secondly, what was the policy mix employed to appease voters while simultaneously promoting structural reforms and economic growth? Abe navigated a delicate balance between catering to public demands and implementing necessary changes. Lastly, what is Abe Shinzō's legacy? What remains of his tenure as the chief executive of Japan?

In conclusion, the book offers a comprehensive analysis of Abe Shinzō's political career, shedding light on his rise, fall, and ultimate resurgence. It explores the factors that contributed to his prolonged tenure in power, the policy choices he made, and the lasting impact he has had on Japanese politics and society.

Weight: 503g
Dimension: 233 x 154 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793643322