Early years

Born on November 3, 1852, in Kyoto, Japan, he was originally named Mutsuhito. His father was the emperor Komei. In 1860 Mutsuhito was declared crown prince, or next in line for the throne. When Komei died in 1867, the young man became emperor. At his coronation (crowning ceremony) in 1868 he took the name Meiji, meaning “enlightened government.”

Reign

At the time when Meiji became emperor Japan was undergoing major changes. In 1854 Japan had opened its borders to the world beyond its shores for the first time in 250 years. Many leaders and citizens began calling for change. Also at the beginning of Meiji's rule, Japan's shoguns (mighty warlords) fell from power. Under Meiji, the government was consolidated under the emperor, ending centuries of control by the shoguns.

Meiji welcomed modernization. The emperor put an end to the ancient land system, breaking up vast holdings of formerly powerful lords. He also created a new school system. In government, Meiji adopted the cabinet system, in which experts advise on matters of state. A new constitution went into effect in 1889, and the Diet, Japan's national assembly, opened in 1890.

Meiji actively encouraged the development of a modern army and navy so that Japan could pursue its aims overseas. During his time in power, the nation engaged in wars with China and Russia. In 1910 the emperor proclaimed that Korea was part of Japan.

The emperor's personal style contributed to his success as a leader. He was the first ruler to make trips around the country, where the common people could see him. He also wore Western clothes and ate Western-style food. Although he made dramatic reforms, he carefully maintained Japan's cultural traditions. Meiji remained in power until his death on July 30, 1912.