The model of an economic power: Japanese diplomacy in the 1960s

Two prime ministers, Ikeda Hayato and Sato Eisaku, each with long administrations, led Japan during the 1960s. The secure political situation, and the benevolent hegemonic power of the United Sates, provided the ideal environment for Japan’s unusual high economic growth. Through this high growth, Japan’s international standing increased dramatically and would further lead to the reduction in the domestic political tensions. On the other hand, some of Japan’s fundamental problems remained unresolved and would become a major hindrance in Japan’s diplomacy afterwards.