Born in 1951 (Shōwa 26 / 昭和26年)

Politics & Economy

• San Francisco Peace Treaty signed - September 8, peace with 48 nations. Japan’s independence restored
• Japan-US Security Treaty signed - Same day, signed security treaty with America
• Korean War reaches stalemate - Armistice negotiations began but struggled

Society & Lifestyle

• Japan Airlines established - Founded as private airline. Began domestic flights
• First NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen - January 3, broadcast on radio. Became national year-end program
• Typhoon Ruth - October 14, hit western Japan. Over 900 deaths
• Electricity restrictions eased - Industry activated by Korean War procurement
• American culture penetrates - Western music and Hollywood films popular

Sports & Entertainment

• Film “Rashomon” wins Venice Golden Lion - Achievement of Japanese cinema recognized worldwide
• Giants’ Kawakami Tetsuharu wins batting title - Thrived with “red bat”
• Rikidozan’s rising popularity in pro wrestling - Karate chop became signature move
• “Lil Back from Shanghai” huge hit - Tsumura Ken’s representative song
• Misora Hibari thrives in films too - Big star as both singer and actress