Reorganizing Society

Another aim of the new government was to reorganize society. The nation removed the restrictions that had prevented people from pursuing any occupation they desired. New laws made the family the basic unit of society and males the heads of households. Some of these laws limited women's rights more drastically than they had been during the Tokugawa era of the 1600's to mid-1800's.

Finally, the government established an ambitious system of public education. By the early 1900's, Japan offered free elementary education to most young people. More advanced, specialized schooling was available to students who had the money and talent to proceed further. This school system made it possible for many people to improve their status in society. It greatly assisted Japan's economic development. The schools also cultivated in students a strong sense of national pride and superiority.