The Forgotten, Denied and Censored History Of Okinawa 【琉球王国 | 沖縄県】

Summary

The transcript details Okinawa's complex historical relationship with Japan, China, and the U.S. It highlights Okinawa's past as an independent kingdom, its annexation by Japan, and the lasting effects of Japanese cultural assimilation. The account explores Okinawa's unique cultural identity, its struggles during the Battle of Okinawa, and the harsh realities under U.S. military presence post-World War II. Despite Okinawa's return to Japan in 1972, it remains a site of protest against American military influence. The transcript emphasizes Okinawa’s history, its resistance to assimilation, and ongoing calls for autonomy.

Takeaways

• 😀 Okinawa's unique history is distinct from Japan's, with differences in climate, culture, and language.
• 😀 Okinawa was once an independent kingdom and a vassal state of both China and Japan before being annexed by Japan.
• 😀 Okinawans were historically more influenced by China, especially through trade and cultural exchanges.
• 😀 In the 1300s, Okinawa was divided into three kingdoms, known as the Three Kingdoms period, with constant territorial battles.
• 😀 Japan's claim to Okinawa began in 1609 when the Satsuma clan invaded, making it a vassal state, but it remained a tributary of China.
• 😀 The Meiji government of Japan in the 1800s sought to integrate Okinawa for strategic purposes, particularly its proximity to China and Taiwan.
• 😀 Okinawa was officially annexed by Japan in 1879, with Okinawans being kept unaware of the full implications of their new status.
• 😀 Okinawa's language and culture were suppressed by Japan, with Japanese becoming the dominant language and culture on the islands.
• 😀 Okinawan martial arts like karate gained attention in Japan, where it was systematized, but Okinawans were unhappy with their art being used by the Japanese military.
• 😀 The Battle of Okinawa during World War II resulted in massive civilian casualties, with around 150,000 deaths out of the pre-war population of 300,000.
• 😀 After World War II, Okinawa was under American control until 1972, during which time the U.S. improved infrastructure but also created social and legal tensions with Okinawans.
• 😀 Today, Okinawa continues to face challenges related to the heavy U.S. military presence, with ongoing protests and calls for independence or greater autonomy.

Q & A

Why is Okinawa often spoken of separately from Japan?

Okinawa is considered distinct from Japan due to its unique history, culture, climate, and people. It was once an independent country, the Ryukyu Kingdom, and only later annexed by Japan. The differences in language, culture, and historical influences from both China and Japan contribute to this perception.

How did Okinawa come under Japanese control?

Okinawa came under Japanese control starting with the Satsuma clan's invasion in 1609, which turned it into a vassal state of Satsuma. Over time, despite being recognized as a tributary of China, Japan gradually asserted its control, and Okinawa was officially annexed in 1879.

What was the significance of Okinawa's relationship with China?

Okinawa had a long history of cultural and political ties with China, especially during the Ming Dynasty. It was influenced by Chinese technology, culture, and even immigration, with the Ming Emperor sending 36 families from Fujian to assist with agriculture. Okinawa's status as a Chinese tributary played a major role in its historical identity.

Why did Japan initially hesitate to annex Okinawa despite its growing power?

Japan hesitated to annex Okinawa outright because of its strategic location and its relationship with China. There were also international diplomatic considerations, including discussions with the United States about dividing the islands between Japan and China. This hesitation persisted until Japan's official annexation of Okinawa in 1879.

How did the annexation of Okinawa affect its culture and language?

The annexation of Okinawa led to the suppression of its native language and culture. The Japanese government enforced the use of Japanese language and customs, sidelining the Okinawan language and traditions. The Okinawan people were also exposed to forced assimilation, with their regional dialects being replaced by Japanese.

What was the role of Okinawan martial arts like Karate in Japan?

Okinawan martial arts, particularly Karate, became widely known in Japan after the island was incorporated into Japan. While Karate's origins trace back to Fujian province in China, it became an influential part of Japanese martial arts culture. However, many Okinawans resented the use of their martial art by Japanese soldiers during World War II.

How did the Battle of Okinawa impact the island and its people?

The Battle of Okinawa, fought in 1945 during World War II, had devastating consequences for the island and its population. It resulted in the deaths of around 150,000 civilians, with civilians often caught in the brutal fighting. Many Okinawans were subjected to horrific violence, including executions for speaking their native language.

What was the American occupation of Okinawa like after World War II?

After World War II, Okinawa was placed under American control from 1950 to 1972. During this period, the United States improved the island's infrastructure but also created tensions by maintaining different laws for American servicemen compared to the local population. The American military presence continues to be a controversial issue in Okinawa today.

What were the long-term effects of the American military presence in Okinawa?

The long-term effects of the American military presence in Okinawa include environmental degradation, with significant pollution from U.S. military operations. The American military also controlled much of the habitable land, leading to social and political tensions. Despite returning Okinawa to Japan in 1972, American military bases remain a point of contention.

What are the current movements regarding Okinawa's political status?

There are ongoing movements in Okinawa seeking independence or greater autonomy, particularly in response to the continued American military presence. However, these movements face significant challenges, as Okinawa is unlikely to gain independence. Instead, Okinawa is expected to return to the pre-WWII status quo once U.S. forces eventually leave.