Study Guide Asia IV Test
1. Name three things the U.S. did to help Japan after the bombing in WWII,
including who was in charge!
 General Douglas MacArthur was given job to get Japan back on its feet.
 Japan’s constitution was rewritten. Its military could no longer be a threat.
 The U.S. also helped to rebuild Japan’s economy. Factories were rebuilt and
people were taught how to operate new machinery.
2. What type of government was formed?
Japan formed a new democratic government, a constitutional monarchy. This new
government would have a two-house parliament called the Diet.
3. How much power did the citizens of Japan have in forming this new government?
Unlike Japan’s old government, the new government gave the people the ability to
elect people into power. All citizens who were 20 years or older were given the right
to vote!
4. Were there any limitations in Japan’s constitution?
Yes! Japan’s new constitution forbid their country to declare war on another
country. Japan’s new military was only allowed to protect their country if attacked.
5. What was the position of the Japanese emperor both before and after WWII?
Before WWII, the Japanese emperor was very involved in all decisions made by
the government. After WWII, the Emperor role was mostly ceremonial. In other
words, he would be symbol and did not have any power in governing the country.
6. Describe Japan’s economy. What does Japan specialize in?
Japan has a mixed economy. Its greatest resource is its people. Because it
lacks natural resources, Japan is one of the most technologically advanced countries
in the world. Japan now produces more cars, ships, and electronic goods than any
other country (with the exception of the U.S.).
7. What is the difference between a democracy, oligarchy, and autocracy?
Democracy- Power is shared amongst different levels of government. Japan and India
have a democracy.
Oligarchy- Government is run by a small group of people. China is an oligarchy.
Autocracy- A ruler has absolute power. North Korea has an autocracy.
8. Understand the similarities/differences in the Korea and Vietnam wars.
Similarities:
 In both wars, communist forces fought against democratic rule.
 Communist countries supported (w/troops and weapons) both wars.
 The U.S. got involved to stop the spread of communism
Differences:
 North Vietnam, under the leadership of Ho Chi Minh, took over South Vietnam and it
became a communist country.
 North Korea was not successful in taking control of South Korea. Today, South
Korea is a successful republic while North Korea is a strict communist country with a
command economy!