In the late 19 thirties, japan still depended upon the united states for nearly one third of its imports. The nation that year had to import a hundred and five thousand tons of copper, 93 % of it from the united states. Japan relied on america for almost 80% of its fuel, and for special distillates, dependents stood at more than 90%. By the summer of 19 forty western colonies in south east asia had come to represent a treasure trove of raw materials whose possession would allow japan to vault into the ranks of the economic halves.