American Occupation post-war (1945-1952)
After the Japanese had accepted the declaration of Potsdam (which is to unconditionally surrender to the Allied) in August 14, 1945 the US send Commander Douglas MacArthur to disarm the Japanese forces and prevent any further weaponry production. In 1947 the allied drafted Japan Constitution and strip Emperor Hirohito from power and turn Japan into a democratic nation (Baker). This causes a dramatic shock to the Japanese people since Japan had the governing system for over centuries. Not only that, according to article 14 of the Constitution of Japan stated that "All of the people are equal under the law and there shall be no discrimination in political, economic or social relations because of race, creed, sex, social status or family origin." so now women in Japan also have equal right as men. Some other reformations are land distribution to the farmers which is 50% of the population ("The Occupation") because if there are land owners the farmers can't economically grow. Under the supervision of Douglas MacArthur Japan is headed toward democracy and being westernized.
Constitution of Japan
The opening statement for the Constitution of Japan
First seven articles from the Constitution of Japan (Toshihiro) which ensure that the emperor/monarchy government won't come back into power again.
"Article 1:The Emperor shall be the symbol of the State and the unity of the people, deriving his position from the will of the people with whom resides sovereign power.
Article 2:The Imperial Throne shall be dynastic and succeeded to in accordance with the Imperial House Law passed by the Diet.
Article 3:The advice and approval of the Emperor in matters of state, and the Cabinet shall be responsible therefor.
Article 4:The Emperor shall perform only such acts in matters of state as are provided for in this Constitution and he shall not have powers related to government. 2) The Emperor may delegate the performance of his acts in matters of state as may be provided for by law.
Article 5:When, in accordance with the Imperial House Law, a Regency is established, the Regent shall perform his acts in matters of state in the Emperor's name. In this case, paragraph one of the preceding Article will be applicable.
Article 6:The Emperor shall appoint the Prime Minister as designated by the Diet. The Emperor shall appoint the Chief Judge of the Supreme Court as designated by the Cabinet.
Article 7:The Emperor shall, with the advice and approval of the Cabinet, perform the following acts in matters of state on behalf of the people: (1) Promulgation of amendments of the constitution, laws, cabinet orders and treaties. (2) Convocation of the Diet. (3) Dissolution of the House of Representatives. (4) Proclamation of general election of members of the Diet. (5) Attestation of the appointment and dismissal of Ministers of State and other officials as provided for by law, and of full powers and credentials of Ambassadors and Ministers. (6) Attestation of general and special amnesty, commutation of punishment, reprieve, and restoration of rights. (7) Awarding of honors. (8) Attestation of instruments of ratification and other diplomatic documents as provided for by law. (9) Receiving foreign ambassadors and ministers. (10) Performance of ceremonial functions.
Article 8:No property can be given to, or received by, the Imperial House, nor can any gifts be made therefrom, without the authorization of the Diet. "