History of Japan Episode 566 - The Revolutionary, Part 1
Feb 21, 2025
Dive into the remarkable life of Miyazaki Manabu, a young scion of a Yakuza family navigating post-war Japan. Explore his struggle between familial expectations and revolutionary ideals taught by his radical tutor. Discover how political unrest and student activism shape his journey, especially during a transformative protest against the U.S. Mutual Security Treaty. This fascinating narrative challenges traditional historical perspectives, revealing the complexities of legacy and change.
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Episode notes
Great Man Theory Reconsidered
- While "great man" histories can overemphasize individuals, they offer compelling narratives.
- Sometimes, specific individuals like Napoleon or Tokugawa Ieyasu significantly influence historical trajectories.
Historians and Public Engagement
- Academic historians struggle to communicate with the public due to theory-heavy language.
- Biographies provide accessible narratives for non-experts.
Introducing Miyazaki Manabu
- The podcast will explore post-war Japan through Miyazaki Manabu's life.
- Miyazaki's biography, "Toppa Mono" ("One Who Breaks Through"), became a bestseller.
