Japanese Railroad History

Paper Summary:

A look at the modern railway system of Japan presents a very impressive picture of technological development. Known today as the Shinkansen (translated to mean "new trunk line" or "new main line"), the record of the Japanese train system is amazing. The paper shows that since its induction in 1964, the Shinkansen has never had a passenger related fatality (meaning there has never been a major train wreckage which caused the deaths of passengers on board the train since its commencement in 1964). This is a remarkable achievement considering that it was one of the first modern railway systems to be built in the world. The paper shows that the safety and reliability of the Shinkansen bears a reflection of the Japanese culture and its people's desire for harmony and an ideal state.

From the Paper:

"Soon after the Meiji Restoration, the new government initiated plans for Japan's railway system. One of the more influential leaders of that early period, Okubo Toshimichi, pushed for the direct involvement of the government in railway construction. He said that to industrialize Japan, "Industrial Initiatives" alone were not adequate. What was required, according to Toshimichi, was "the patronage and encouragement of the government and its officials" (Beasley 103-104). Early on, leaders in the Meiji government recognized the political and economic benefits of a railway. A strong military needed a railroad system, and the railway would strengthen the central government."

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