The Kumamoto Band: The Development of Nationalism in the Early Christian Movement in Japan

Abstract

After some two hundred years of prohibition, Christianity re-entered Japan as an integral part of the Western civilization that was penetrating Japan during the transitional period between the last years of the Tokugawa rule and the early years of the Meiji Restoration. It entered at a time when Japan was experiencing far-reaching political and social changes as it sought to meet the challenge of the West through vigorous programs of modernization. The aim of the new Meiji government in its attempt to modernize was to enrich the nation and strengthen its arms. The leaders sought to strengthen Japan militarily and to gain equality with the West. They further sought to build up Japan's economy, develop her industry and commerce, utilize more effectively her human resources, and reform her social and political institutions. To accomplish these ends the Meiji government displayed a readiness to boldly experiment with new methods. At the same time, however, the government did not forsake traditional ideals and values but clung tenaciously to them.