Shigeru Yoshida: Postwar Prime Minister of Japan and Career Diplomat (1878–1967)
Shigeru Yoshida (1878–1967) was a Japanese diplomat and postwar prime minister (1946–47, 1948–54) who shaped Japan’s recovery after WWII; prewar ambassador to Britain and critic of militarism.
Shigeru Yoshida (22 September 1878 – 20 October 1967) was a prominent Japanese diplomat and statesman who led Japan as prime minister in the immediate postwar era, holding office from 1946 to 1947 and again from 1948 to 1954.
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Postwar role and appointments
In the chaotic months after World War II, Yoshida returned to public service at the invitation of the occupying authorities. When General Douglas MacArthur, acting as the military governor of Japan, sought experienced Japanese officials, Yoshida was summoned to Tokyo and entrusted with high diplomatic responsibility as foreign minister, a step that helped pave the way for his later terms as prime minister.
Prewar career and opposition
Before the war, Yoshida built a career in the foreign service; he was appointed Ambassador to England in 1936. By 1939 he had fallen into disfavor with elements of the ruling government because he opposed the aggressive military policies pursued by Japan. Faced with limited options, he chose to retire, and his outspoken stance later led to imprisonment during the more repressive years.
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AlegsaOnline.com Shigeru Yoshida: Postwar Prime Minister of Japan and Career Diplomat (1878–1967) Leandro Alegsa
URL: https://en.alegsaonline.com/art/89762
Sources
- commons.wikimedia.org : Shigeru Yoshida
- biography.yourdictionary.com : "Shigeru Yoshida Facts"
- pbs.org : "People & Events Prime Minister Yoshida Shigeru (1878-1967)"