Born in 1908 (Meiji 41 / 明治41年)

Politics & Economy

• Second Katsura Cabinet formed - Katsura Taro became Prime Minister again. “Katsura-Saionji Era” politics continued
• Boshin Imperial Rescript issued - Encouraged thrift and saving among citizens. Post-war fiscal reconstruction
• First Brazil emigration departs - 781 people sailed on Kasato Maru to Brazil. Full-scale Japanese emigration began

Society & Lifestyle

• Red Flag Incident - Socialists arrested for displaying red flags at gatherings. Increased suppression of social movements
• Japan’s first domestic aircraft design - Ninomiya Chuhachi researched flight principles. Did not achieve practical use
• “Sanshiro” serialization begins - Natsume Soseki serialized in Asahi Shimbun. A masterpiece of youth novels
• Tokyo streetcar strike - Labor movement became active. Affected citizens’ daily lives
• Canned goods and condensed milk spread - Military supplies converted to civilian use and became commonplace

Sports & Entertainment

• Japan’s first Olympic participation discussed - Participation in London Olympics debated
• Kabukiza theater relocated and rebuilt - New theater opened in Ginza
• Phonograph adoption begins - Culture of enjoying music at home started
• Baseball popularity grows - Secondary school baseball became popular
• Rakugo and kodan storytelling popular - Yose entertainment established as commoner recreation