Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Wake of World War II

Discusses the immediate aftermath of WW2. Illuminates how shattering defeat followed by over 6 years of Amer. military occupation affected every level of Japanese society in ways that neither the victor nor the vanquished could anticipate. Vividly portrays the countless ways in which Japanese met the challenge of starting over -- from top-level manipulations concerning the fate of Emperor Hirohito to the hopes, fears, & activities of ordinary men & women in every walk of life. A fascinating portrait of an extraordinary moment in history, when new values warred with old & early ideals of demilitarization & radical reform were soon challenged by the U.S.'s decision to incorporate Japan into the Cold War Pax Americana. National Book Award Winner. Photos.