Dilemma in Japan Roth, Andrew [Near Fine] [Hardcover]

Description

First edition of this work written before VJ-Day arguing that the Allied plan for a postwar Japan was just as dangerous as that for the Weimer Republic and that permanent peace would require regime change. The author, Andrew Roth, was a recognized expert on the Far East, who wrote extensively on wartime Japan for publications including the New York Times. This work, written prior to the dropping of the atomic bombs and the Japanese defeat, nevertheless recognizes Japan on the verge of losing the war and the need for a coherent post-war plan. Roth believed that the preference of the Allies for a peace leaving in place feudal structures including the emperor while working with so-called moderates would only result in eventual war. He recognized a clear danger of recreating the conditions in Weimer Germany that gave birth to the totalitarianism of the Third Reich. Instead, Roth argued that the Allies should work toward a democratic Japan by using democratic elements--farmers, small businessmen--already present in Japanese society to transform the country and create a lasting peace. Bookplate of Dorothy and Paul Steintorf, the latter of whom was a government official and foreign service officer. Bookseller ticket. Book with a few spots of foxing to edge of text block and mild toning to spine. Dust jacket with only light wear to extremities and mild toning to spine.