The South Sea Islands Under Japanese Mandate
Harris, Walter B. (1932). "The South Sea Islands Under Japanese Mandate". Foreign Affairs. 10 (4): 691. doi:10.2307/20030471. ISSN 0015-7120.
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Abstract: "The South Sea Islands Under Japanese Mandate," published in in July 1932, provides a detailed analysis of the South Sea Islands under Japanese administration. Key themes include the cultural and economic conditions of the native population and Japan's efforts at governance. The native inhabitants are described as generally docile and law-abiding, yet idle and reliant on the natural abundance of food provided by the islands, such as wild fruits, yams, and coconuts, which discourages them from engaging in sustained labor. Consequently, native labor plays a minimal role in the islands' agricultural and industrial development. This has led to the introduction of Japanese workers from the Luchu Islands to meet labor demands, especially in emerging industries like sugar and fishing, which do not compete with native labor.
The Japanese administration faces challenges due to the islands' remote locations and the complexity of managing spread-out territories. Efforts are focused on improving justice, education, hygiene, and mission work, with the Japanese government promoting Christianity as a suitable faith for the natives. Despite the logistical and cultural barriers, the Japanese administration has been noted for its commendable work in enhancing infrastructure and healthcare, maintaining harmonious relations with the natives.
The article concludes by reflecting on the natives' passive resistance to modernization and their traditional lifestyles, suggesting a tension between cultural preservation and development aspirations.
Extra details:
MAG: 2555420398 OpenAlex: W2555420398 CorpusID: 157386877
