The Truth (Emperor Hirohito and the War of Aggression against China)

Author: Herbert Bix (USA), translated by Wang Liping and others
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2004-09-01
Features: Pulitzer Prize-winning biography. The Pulitzer Prize Committee stated: "This is a book that rewrites traditional views, reveals the truth of history, and serves as a historical warning to Japan!" The Los Angeles Times commented on the book, saying: "The content is explosive, shattering the long-held notion that the Japanese Emperor during World War II was merely passive or even a 'puppet.'" The Publishers Weekly remarked: "It showcases the controversial and astonishing side of the Japanese Emperor, making it the best political biography of its kind." The Foreign Affairs Quarterly commented: "The book's significant contribution lies in overturning existing misconceptions and turning the page on the old narrative!" Emperor Hirohito of Japan's Showa era ascended to the throne in 1926 and passed away in 1989, ruling for 63 years. Due to the strict seals imposed by the Japanese Imperial Household and government, very little was known about his life to the world, particularly his relationship with the aggressive war launched in his name. After Emperor Hirohito's death, global interest in him not only did not wane but surged. The focus of attention centered on Emperor Hirohito's connection to Japan's aggressive war of invasion. With the end of the Showa era, the diaries and memoirs of some of Emperor Hirohito's staff members gradually became public. Additionally, the U.S. National Archives released many confidential materials related to the Pacific War and Emperor Hirohito personally. Finally, after hiding behind the iron curtain for over half a century, Emperor Hirohito was brought into the spotlight.
"Truth—Emperor Hirohito and Japan's War of Invasion in China" focuses on the character, behavior, and thought processes of this extraordinary Japanese political leader, aiming to better interpret Japanese society and politics in the 20th century. The central theme of the book is how Emperor Hirohito, with the help of his close aides, carved out a political space for himself and gradually became an independent political force (within this space), exercising leadership power in decision-making processes. The author explicitly states that Emperor Hirohito bore direct responsibility for Japan's war of invasion in China and the atrocities committed by the Japanese army. He played a decisive role in formulating Japan's war strategy and directed all military actions against China.