History Daily The Assassination of Japan's Prime Minister
May 15, 2025
On May 15, 1932, Japan's Prime Minister Inukai Tsuyoshi faces a shocking assassination, setting off a tidal wave of political unrest. Against this backdrop, Charlie Chaplin's visit to Tokyo adds a quirky twist, highlighting the clash of modernization and nationalism. The mindset of Lieutenant Mikami Taku reveals the fervor behind the attack, justifying it as a bid for national pride. The leniency shown in the trial of conspirators marks a dangerous turn, signaling the military's rising power and foreshadowing the dire consequences that follow.
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Prime Minister's Assassination
- On May 15, 1932, Prime Minister Inukai Tsuyoshi was assassinated by nationalist military officers at his residence.
- He tried to protect his family and reason with his attackers before being shot dead in the coup attempt.
Charlie Chaplin's Narrow Escape
- Charlie Chaplin visited Tokyo in 1932, attracting huge crowds and inspiring both admiration and anxiety.
- He changed plans to attend a sumo match, which ultimately saved him from being killed in the coup.
Militarism Erodes Democracy
- Japan's rapid modernization came with military expansion and growing nationalist militarism.
- Military forces acted independently and civilian politics weakened under nationalist and economic pressures.