
How Did Japan Become A Superpower?
From Dan Snow's History Hit by History Hit
May 7, 2026 · 47 min · Episode 1788
About this episode
This episode explores how Japan transformed from a feudal society into a modern industrial superpower in the 19th century.
In the 19th century, Japan's samurai era ended, and the country transformed from a secluded feudal society into a modern industrial superpower. From sweeping political reforms to rapid industrialisation, this is the story of how Japan reinvented itself in just decades and emerged as a formidable global power. Joining us is Dr Chris Harding, a cultural historian of Japan and India from the University of Edinburgh. Produced by James Hickmann and edited by Matthew Wilson. We need your help! Let us know what you want from Dan Snow's History Hit by filling in our anonymous survey here: https://forms.gle/PvgayWLkWGjYT4St6 Dan Snow's History Hit is now available on YouTube! Check it out at: https://www.youtube.com/@DSHHPodcast Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe . You can also email the podcast directly at ds.hh@historyhit.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
People in this episode
Host: Dan Snow
Guest: Dr Chris Harding
Topics covered
- Japan
- superpower
- industrialization
- political reforms
- cultural history
Keywords
- Japan
- superpower
- industrialization
- 19th century
- political reforms
- cultural history
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: University of Edinburgh, History Hit
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