(Redirected from
Shōwa Period)
-
This article is about the 1926-1989 period in Japanese history. For the earlier Shōwa era (1312-1317) see Shōwa (first). For other meanings of Shōwa including places with this name, see Shōwa.
The Shōwa period (Japanese: 昭和時代, Shōwa-jidai, "period of enlightened peace") was the time in Japanese history when Emperor Hirohito reigned over the country, from December 25, 1926 to January 7, 1989. It was the longest reign of all Japanese emperors.
The early part of Hirohito's reign was characterized by strong nationalist influences (Japanese nationalism) and imperialism. Following the surrender of Japan in the Second World War, the Occupation of Japan lasted until 1952. After the Treaty of San Francisco was enacted, Japan had regained independent sovereignty and has been in relative peace ever since.
Pronunciation and Romanization
Shōwa (昭和) is pronounced sho wa, with an elongated o in the first syllable.
-
Subperiods:
See also