In this article, the author presents a truer picture than economic historians have previously had of the economies of Tokugawa Japan, and Britain during the Industrial Revolution. Though substantially different, both societies were prosperous compared to most of the rest of the world. Japan's economic success began in the Tokugawa period…

The key factor for consideration in formulating a long-term, U.S. international trade policy is that many democratic countries have brought government into direct or indirect management of their industrial affairs. As an example, the relationship of government to steel in Japan is analyzed. Business and industry should not be protectionist. (RM)

Because of revisions made in the content of history textbooks, Japan has been accused of attempting to rewrite history as part of a larger conspiracy to brainwash students and to rearm the nation. Discussed are the legal authority of the national government to screen and approve textbooks and international reactions. (RM)