Why is it important to study medieval Japan?
In this age of technology, students are being raised and educated to be participants in a global economy, thus it is imperative for students to have knowledge of the cultures and histories of countries besides their own. Gaining a knowledge of medieval Japan allows students to trace and understand the roots of many aspects of modern Japanese culture. Learning medieval Japanese history also gives students a background and context for events that transpired in more modern history that had a direct effect on American society. In later grades, students are better able to analyze the motivations and actions of the Japanese during World War II because of prior knowledge of the rise of medieval samurai and the warrior code of bushido. By having students study medieval Japan, they move away from a Euro-centric curriculum and are exposed to a more diverse picture of history and the world.