Ideology And Culture In German Japanese Relations 1919 1936 Publications Of The

The period between 1919 and 1936 witnessed a fascinating interplay of ideology and culture in German-Japanese relations. As two nations trying to rebuild themselves after the First World War, Germany and Japan found common ground in their shared ambition for national rejuvenation. This article delves into the publications of this time to explore the underlying dynamics that shaped their relationship.

Origins of Ideological Sympathy

Both Germany and Japan were dealing with the aftermath of national defeat and faced social and economic challenges that demanded a new direction. In Germany, the humiliating Treaty of Versailles and the economic woes of the Weimar Republic fueled a resurgence of nationalist sentiments under Adolf Hitler's Nazi Party. In Japan, the militaristic ambitions of the government aimed to establish Japan as an imperial power.

Publications played a crucial role in disseminating ideological ideas and shaping public opinion during this period. Reflecting the cultural climate, these publications fueled a sense of nationalistic pride and a longing for past greatness in both Germany and Japan.

Transnational Nazism: Ideology and Culture in German-Japanese Relations, 1919–1936 (Publications of the German Historical Institute)

by Ricky W. Law(Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
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Nationalist Publications in Germany

In Germany, publications such as "Der Stürmer" propagated anti-Semitic theories and fostered a belief in the superiority of the Aryan race. This publication, founded by Julius Streicher in 1923, played a significant role in disseminating Nazi propaganda and supporting the regime's persecution of Jews.

Other influential publications included "Völkischer Beobachter" and "Das Reich," both of which promoted Hitler's ideology and the concept of the Third Reich. Through these publications, Nazi propaganda effectively shaped public opinion and garnered support for the regime's policies.

Nationalist Publications in Japan

In Japan, publications such as "Kokutai no Hongi" emphasized the uniqueness and superiority of the Japanese national essence, known as "kokutai." This work, published by the Imperial Japanese Government, sought to instill a sense of national unity and loyalty to the Emperor.

"Kokumin no Tomo" and "Kaizo" were other significant publications that promoted pan-Asianism and a sense of Japanese racial superiority. These publications were instrumental in shaping the public's perception of Japan's role in the world and fostering support for its imperial ambitions.

Shared Interest and Collaboration

The ideological affinity between Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan led to a strengthening of their relationship. Publications served as a means of communication and collaboration between the two nations, reinforcing their shared interests.

One notable example is the exchange of publications between the Nazi Party and the Japanese government. Materials related to eugenics, racial purity, and fascist ideology were shared to enhance their respective nationalist agendas. These publications aimed to establish a bond and foster cooperation in their mutual pursuit of national rejuvenation.

Cultural Exchange and Influence

Beyond ideology, cultural exchange played a significant role in fostering German-Japanese relations during this period. Publications on art, literature, and language were exchanged, allowing both nations to appreciate and learn from each other's cultural heritage.

German publications on philosophy, science, and technology had a profound influence on Japan, shaping their cultural and intellectual landscape. Likewise, Japanese literature and traditional arts fascinated the German public, leading to a newfound appreciation for Japanese culture.

The publications of 1919-1936 give us valuable insights into the interplay of ideology and culture in German-Japanese relations. With a shared aspiration for national rejuvenation, both nations used publications to propagate their ideologies and strengthen their collaboration.

Although these publications reflected darker ideologies and contributed to the subsequent atrocities committed by both nations during World War II, they also underscore the importance of media and cultural exchange in shaping international relations.

Transnational Nazism: Ideology and Culture in German-Japanese Relations, 1919–1936 (Publications of the German Historical Institute)

by Ricky W. Law(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
File size	:	9415 KB
Print length	:	358 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

In 1936, Nazi Germany and militarist Japan built a partnership which culminated in the Tokyo-Berlin Axis. This study of interwar German-Japanese relations is the first to employ sources in both languages. Transnational Nazism was an ideological and cultural outlook that attracted non-Germans to become adherents of Hitler and National Socialism, and convinced German Nazis to identify with certain non-Aryans. Because of the distance between Germany and Japan, mass media was instrumental in shaping mutual perceptions and spreading transnational Nazism. This work surveys the two national media to examine the impact of transnational Nazism. When Hitler and the Nazi movement gained prominence, Japanese newspapers, lectures and pamphlets, nonfiction, and language textbooks transformed to promote the man and his party. Meanwhile, the ascendancy of Hitler and his regime created a niche for Japan in the Nazi worldview and Nazified newspapers, films, nonfiction, and voluntary associations.