Tracks to Teito: The Tokyo Train Network and the Meiji Quest For Domestic Hegemony and International Recognition
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Date
2008-09
Authors
Grunow, Tristan R., 1983-
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
From its inception in 1872, with the first line between Tokyo and Yokohama,
the Tokyo railway network played a critical role in the domestic and international
political aspirations of the new Meiji government. In a domestic form of "railway
imperialism," the Meiji government sought to use railways as a means of unifying the
country and asserting its legitimacy by centering the network on Tokyo. Meanwhile, to
craft Japan as a modem, "civilized" nation-state on a par with the West, Meiji leaders
sought to re-create Tokyo as Teito, or the grand "imperial capital" of a unified Japan.
These two forms of state-formation culminated in the construction of the monumental
Tokyo Station in 1914. With the completion of Tokyo Station as the cornerstone of the
national railway network and at the center of the Teito, the Japanese government
asserted domestic hegemony and anticipated international recognition as a modem "first
class power."
Description
ix, 133 p. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number.