An Overview of Japan's Modern History from the NHK Archives

1950s and 1960s: Rapid Economic Growth

In 1959, Emperor Hirohito's older son, Akihito, became the first man in the imperial family to marry a commoner. Television broadcasting had begun in 1953. Citizens who wanted to watch live coverage of the wedding parade rushed to buy receivers; a huge increase in ownership meant television began to play a major role in Japanese daily life. As the Cold War continued, Japanese engaged in heated, sometimes violent, disputes over whether their country should renew its security treaty with the United States. Eventually, the political turmoil subsided and the economy rose. In 1960, the Prime Minister pledged to double citizens' incomes in 10 years. The economy actually grew four-fold over that period. Migration of people from rural areas to big cities caused urban problems such as rush-hour traffic. Pollution showed that the priority placed on economic growth was straining the environment.
  • The Crown Prince and his bride appear on their wedding day.

    The Crown Prince and his bride appear on their wedding day.

  • The imperial wedding procession takes place on live TV.

    The imperial wedding procession takes place on live TV.

  • Citizens rally against the Japan-US security treaty.

    Citizens rally against the Japan-US security treaty.

  • Tokyo commuters walk through a packed railway station.

    Tokyo commuters walk through a packed railway station.