 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (November 2024) |
 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (November 2019) |
Iwakura Tomomi 岩倉 具視 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | October 26, 1825 Kyoto, Japan |
| Died | July 20, 1883 (aged 57) Tokyo, Japan |
| Occupation | Politician
|
| Known for | Leading[a] the Meiji Revolution Heading the Iwakura Mission |
Iwakura Tomomi (岩倉 具視, October 26, 1825 – July 20, 1883) was a Japanese statesman during the Bakumatsu and Meiji period.[1] He was one of the leading figures of the Meiji Restoration, which saw Japan's transition from feudalism to modernism.
Born to a noble family, he was adopted by the influential Iwakura family. By 1858 he was an advisor to Emperor Kōmei, but was exiled from the royal court from 1862 to 1867 for his moderation. After release, he became the liaison between the court and the anti-Tokugawa movement. He played a central role in the new Meiji government after 1868. He successfully opposed aggressive policies in Korea in the crisis of 1873, and was nearly assassinated by his enemies.
He led the 50-member Iwakura Mission for 18 months in Europe and America, studying modern institutions, technology, and diplomacy. The Mission promoted many key reforms that quickly modernized Japan. He promoted a strong imperial system along Western lines, and played a central role in creating financial institutions for the nation.
The 500 Yen banknote issued by the Bank of Japan carried his portrait.
- ^ Nussbaum, Louis-Frédéric. (2005). "Iwakura Tomomi" in Japan Encyclopedia, p. 408, p. 408, at Google Books.