Glossary
Abolition of Serfdom (1861)
A major reform in Russia initiated by Tsar Alexander II, which freed millions of serfs from their bondage to landowners.
Example:
The Abolition of Serfdom (1861) was a crucial step towards Russian industrialization, as it provided a new labor force for burgeoning factories in urban centers.
Bushido
The moral code of the samurai, emphasizing honor, courage, loyalty, self-discipline, and respect.
Example:
A samurai's life was governed by bushido, which dictated their conduct in battle and in daily life, prioritizing duty and honor above all else.
Commodore Matthew Perry
An American naval officer who led an expedition to Japan in 1853, forcing it to open its ports to trade with the United States.
Example:
The arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry's 'black ships' in Tokyo Bay was a pivotal moment that ended Japan's long period of isolation and spurred its rapid modernization.
Constitutional Monarchy
A form of government in which a monarch acts as head of state within the parameters of a constitution, which limits their powers.
Example:
Following the Meiji Restoration, Japan adopted a constitutional monarchy, where the Emperor held symbolic power but governance was guided by a new constitution and elected officials.
European Interference
The involvement of European powers in the internal affairs of other countries, often through economic pressure, political manipulation, or military intervention.
Example:
Egypt's industrialization efforts were ultimately undermined by European interference, as Britain and France used the country's mounting debt to gain control over its finances and policies.
Feudalism
A social and political system in which land is exchanged for military service or labor, creating a hierarchy of lords and vassals.
Example:
Before the Meiji reforms, Japan operated under a system of feudalism, where powerful daimyo controlled their own domains and samurai served as their loyal warriors.
Laissez-faire capitalism
An economic system where the government minimizes its intervention in the economy, allowing free markets and private enterprise to largely regulate themselves.
Example:
In contrast to countries pursuing state-led development, nations adhering to laissez-faire capitalism believed that the invisible hand of the market, not government planning, would lead to the greatest prosperity.
Meiji Restoration
A period of rapid political, social, and economic change in Japan beginning in 1868, which restored imperial rule and led to widespread modernization and Westernization.
Example:
The Meiji Restoration transformed Japan from a feudal society into a major industrial and military power, fundamentally altering its trajectory in global affairs.
Muhammad Ali
An Albanian Ottoman governor who initiated significant reforms in Egypt in the early 19th century, aiming to modernize its military and economy.
Example:
Muhammad Ali's ambitious efforts to industrialize Egypt, particularly in cotton production and military manufacturing, laid the groundwork for its modern state.
Protectionist Tariffs
Taxes imposed on imported goods, designed to make foreign products more expensive and thus protect domestic industries from competition.
Example:
To foster its nascent industries, the Russian government implemented protectionist tariffs, making imported British textiles more costly than locally produced ones.
Sakoku
Japan's self-imposed policy of national isolation from the outside world, enforced from the 17th to the mid-19th century.
Example:
For over two centuries, Japan maintained its sakoku policy, severely limiting foreign trade and cultural exchange until external pressures forced its opening.
Samurai
The hereditary warrior class in feudal Japan, known for their martial skills, loyalty, and adherence to the bushido code.
Example:
Many samurai faced an uncertain future after the Meiji Restoration abolished their traditional privileges and military roles, forcing them to adapt to a rapidly changing society.
State-Owned Factories
Industrial enterprises that are directly owned and operated by the government, rather than by private individuals or corporations.
Example:
In Russia, the government established numerous state-owned factories to produce steel, armaments, and other essential goods, directly controlling key sectors of the economy.
State-led industrialization
An economic model where the government actively directs and invests in industrial development through policies, subsidies, and regulations.
Example:
During the 19th century, Japan's government played a central role in building factories and infrastructure, demonstrating a clear commitment to state-led industrialization to rapidly modernize the nation.
Uneven industrialization
A pattern of industrial growth where development is concentrated in specific regions or sectors, leading to disparities and imbalances within a country.
Example:
Despite significant investment, Russia experienced uneven industrialization, with most factories and infrastructure concentrated in its European western regions, leaving vast areas underdeveloped.