Emperor Meiji

Emperor Meiji was Japan's emperor from 1868 to 1912. He was the leader of Japan during a period of great change, when Japan opened its borders to the world, began to become a modern industrialized nation, and fought wars in order to protect itself. Emperor Meiji is credited with bringing Japan into the modern era, by introducing new technology, opening trade with other countries, and creating a strong central government. He also made important changes to Japanese law, education, and religion. He is remembered as a great leader and credited with helping Japan become an important world power.