The Cunning History Teacher lesson plan on the Causes of Japanese Expansion during the Interwar Period is an in-depth and comprehensive look at the events and factors that led to Japan’s expansion during this time period. The lesson begins by providing an overview of the main causes of Japanese expansion, including nationalism and militaristic ideologies and foreign policy decisions.

The lesson then delves into specific events that played a role in Japan’s expansion, such as the Treaty of Kanagawa, which marked the end of Japan’s isolationist policy and the opening of the country to foreign trade, and the 1st Sino-Japanese War, which marked Japan’s first major military victory and established its dominance in East Asia. The Treaty of Shimonoseki, Anglo-Japanese Alliance, and Russo-Japanese War are also discussed as key events in Japan’s expansion during this time period.

Japan’s 21 Demands on China, the impact of the First World War, and the Washington Naval Conference are also covered, as well as the Four, Five and Nine Power Pacts, which were agreements made between countries to limit the naval arms race and maintain peace in the Pacific. The lesson also covers China’s Unification and the Anti-Comintern Pact, which was a pact signed between Japan and Germany to counter the spread of communism.

Additionally, the lesson examines the impact of the Great Depression on Japan and how it affected the country’s expansionist policies. Finally, the lesson covers the Chinese United Fronts and the Long March, which were significant events in China’s resistance to Japan’s expansion during the interwar period.

To help students engage with the material and think critically, the lesson plan includes four short films, comprehension questions, group work, and the creation of a poster. These activities provide students with the opportunity to explore different aspects of the topic in a hands-on and interactive way, and to develop their critical thinking skills. Overall, this lesson plan is a valuable resource for teachers looking to provide students with a thorough understanding of the causes of Japanese expansion during the Interwar Period.

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