Mark Ravina explores Japan's WWII motives and challenge to US power; He spotlights four officials who foresaw defeat and urged capitulation, plus the decisive 1945 Soviet attack.

US forces under MacArthur exonerate Japan's emperor to gain an ally in the Cold War; This misleads Japanese about war causes; Other controversial occupation decisions exist.

US occupation aids Japan's recovery through free trade, land reform, and political changes; Korean War boosts exports; These factors drive postwar economic growth.

1960 crisis over US treaty brings stability; PM Kishi's forceful tactics cause his fall but set precedent; Successors avoid his methods; This cements Japan's global position.

MITI plans Japan's growth, but success often defies it; Sony thrives despite MITI; Japanese industry adopts US-born practices like total quality management.

Misunderstood euphemism affects Nixon's Japan policy; "Nixon shocks" and oil embargo threaten Japan's economy; Japan adapts to new challenges.