The Meiji Restoration of 1868 is one of the most astonishing political events of the modern era, yet it doesn't fit easily with Western precedents of mass mobilization and social transformation. This book challenges some of the preconceptions that have hindered the Restoration being understood on its own terms.

ALISTAIR SWALE is the author ofThe Political Thought of Mori Arinori: A Study in Meiji Conservatism, as well as having contributed chapters to a number of collaborative works dealing with various aspects of nineteenth century Japanese history. He is currently interested in examining further the role of popular culture in political communication.

Introduction Japan Within the World System: Urbanization, Political Stasis and Western Economic Expansion The Meiji Coup d'Etat Mass Media and the Development of Civil Culture 'The More Thorough Fulfillment of the Restoration' The Imperial Household, the Popular Press and the Contestation of Public Space Conclusion: Conservatism, Traditionalism and Restoration Bibliography