Remembering WWII: Why Japan and Germany Have Different Approaches

Introduction

The aftermath of World War II saw Japan and Germany embark on different paths of post-war reconstruction and memory. Understanding these differences is crucial for appreciating how each nation came to terms with its past and its current place in the world.

Historical Context

Japan was wholly occupied by the United States, with the exception of some islands annexed by the Soviet Union. In contrast, Germany was occupied by the US, UK, France, and the Soviet Union, divided until 1989. Japan never faced military invasion, having surrendered after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Germany faced heavy bombing, but not atomic weapons, and was significantly divided during the Cold War period.

Consequences and Reactions

These different experiences shaped the ways in which Japan and Germany approached their collective memory of WWII. Japan held on to a sense of national unity, whereas in Germany, the heavy devolution of power and the public frustration with the occupying forces led to a more strained relationship with its past.

Post-War Governance

Both countries underwent significant changes in governance. Germany’s post-war government was built from scratch in the years following 1945, with two new republics emerging. Japan, however, continued its pre-war government, leading to a more ambiguous approach to reviewing its wartime history.

Political and Social Landscapes

The unconditional rejection of the Nazi past was central to the new German republics, with academic and governmental efforts to label the Nazi regime as an Unrechtsstaat (unlawful state). In contrast, Japan’s government and public faced a more chronic ambivalence on how to address their wartime past. The preservation of the emperor system and the political power dynamics played a significant role in this.

War Responsibility and Historical Apologies

Germany approached the issue of war responsibility by focusing on the Holocaust and crimes against humanity, while Japan issued numerous apologies for conventional war crimes and colonial rule. These differing approaches highlight the different historical narratives that each country has adopted.

Freedom of Speech and Political Control

The aftermath of the war saw different approaches to freedom of speech. In Germany, post-war legal restrictions on Nazism and communism have been controversial, reflecting a tension between political control and democratic freedoms. Japan’s acceptance of the post-war policies and the continuation of the emperor system have similarly influenced its approach to historical issues.

Conclusion

The distinct paths taken by Japan and Germany in post-war reconstruction and memory of WWII reflect deep-seated historical and political differences. Understanding these nuances is crucial for evaluating the current geopolitical landscape and the ways in which these countries continue to engage with their pasts.