3/ Government of Meiji Japan
In early 1868, Emperor Meiji declared power to be restored to the Imperial House and the end of shogunal system.
Fighting was needed before and after the declaration.
New administrative system – in 1871, Domain (Han) system was abolished and domains were converted into prefectures, headed by a bureaucratic appointee from the central government. Power is centralized.
New military –
- In late 1873 and 1874, the samurai were given the option to convert their stipends into government bonds.
- Nationwide conscription established in 1873
Land tax reform established a uniformly set tax rate at 3% on land bonds, which recognizes private land ownership. A cash-based system replaced payment with crops. In January 1877, the government lowered the tax rate from 3% to 2.5% in an effort to regain support for the land tax.
In 1889, the Constitution was adopted, with recognition of the Emperor. Technically, the power is still from the Emperor.