Why the United States Rebuilt Japan After Pearl Harbor: A Study in Enlightenment and Pragmatism

After the countless atrocities committed by Japan, including the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, one may wonder why the United States chose to rebuild and support Japan post-WWII. This decision was not driven by altruism or sentiment but rather a strategic and pragmatic approach that recognized both the short-term risks and long-term benefits of fostering a strong and friendly ally in the Pacific region.

A Lesson from History: Hitler and the Treaty of Versailles

The failure of the Treaty of Versailles after World War I set the stage for the rise of Hitler and the subsequent outbreak of World War II. The punitive measures and reprisals imposed on Germany led to a sense of resentment and nationalistic fervor, producing an enemy rather than a compliant nation. In contrast, the U.S. decision to rebuild Japan emerged from a more enlightened desire to avoid similar pitfalls and to establish a stable ally for the future.

MacArthur and the Role of a Friendly Ally

General Douglas MacArthur, who led the occupation of Japan, saw the Japanese as 'bad behaving teenagers' rather than enemies. His approach was to educate and discipline them, not to punish indefinitely. This method aimed to create a future ally rather than to fuel further resentment and hostility. An important point to note is that the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was viewed by the U.S. as a regrettable miscalculation by Japan, rather than a deliberate provocation by the U.S.

Further, it's worth considering that the Pearl Harbor attack was not unforeseeable. At the time, the U.S. military was far superior and had opportunities to defend against the incoming Japanese forces, yet they failed to do so effectively. This oversight is often overlooked, as it would have provided additional leverage and bargaining power against Japan.

A Lesson from Germany’s Rebuilding

The U.S. had a successful precedent of rebuilding Germany after World War II, which Otto von Bismarck had once demonstrated in 1866 with Austria. By offering Germany a fair peace and allowing it to rise again, Bismarck created a prosperous and stable nation. The last time Germany went to war with Austria was in 1914, but that conflict was not a result of any deliberate action by Bismarck’s policies.

By extending a hand of friendship and support, the U.S. aimed to prevent Japan from falling into the hands of the Soviet Union or other communist powers. A stable Japan would serve as a counterbalance to any potential communist influence in the region and would help to maintain a balance of power. Moreover, the U.S. recognized that a prosperous Japan would be a valuable ally in the looming Cold War.

Strategic Interest and Industrial Potential

The post-war reconstruction of Japan was not solely an altruistic endeavor but a carefully calculated move to create a strong and prosperous ally. A stable Japan offered industrial potential and could be a reliable source of supplies and support for the U.S. during the Cold War.

During the Korean War, the U.S. realized the importance of having a robust industrial base in the region. Japan’s industrial capacity contributed significantly to the war effort, providing essential resources and manufacturing. This period further underscored the strategic value of maintaining a friendly and prosperous Japan.

Conclusion: The Calculation of Enlightenment and Pragmatism

In conclusion, the U.S. decision to rebuild Japan post-WWII was a result of enlightened pragmatism. Balancing the desire for peace and stability with strategic interests, the U.S. chose to forgive and rebuild rather than to punish and isolate. This approach has proven to be beneficial, as a stable and prosperous alliance serves the mutual interests of both nations. By avoiding the trap of prolonged resentment and hostility, the U.S. has fostered a long-lasting alliance that has significantly impacted the geopolitical landscape of the Pacific region.