Douglas Macarthur's Impact On Japan

“He had a way of touching your elbow or shoulder, upping his chin with a slight jerk and crowding into his eye such a warmth of blessing… he made you feel you’d contributed a boon to the whole human race” (“Douglas MacArthur” 1). MacArthur came from a background of a strict military upbringing. His father and grandfather were both generals and being raised on a military base MacArthur was destined to be a part of the United States military. His life was shaped and structured, but he had a special quality others lacked. He was a man with a mind ingenious and a heart of gold. Douglas MacArthur’s extraordinary efforts in Japan have enhanced as well as revolutionized America as well as impacted the country of Japan forever. From a young age, …show more content…
Ignoring all criticism, MacArthur continued with what he believed was best for the country. “Aloof and vain, Viceroy MacArthur was almost as reclusive as the Wizard of Oz” (“How Douglas MacArthur…” 2). MacArthur made sure to keep Japanese culture alive and kept a “distant command and remote government” (“How Douglas MacArthur…” 2). MacArthur treated Japan as his own country and helped restore its government practically on his own. “It was very much an American show, and there was no doubt who was in charge” (PBS 2). MacArthur became the “substitute” emperor but he kept the previous emperor in close ties. General MacArthur implemented a new constitution to the Japanese government; many articles reflected America’s New Deal policies and established social welfare and civil rights, especially towards women. MacArthur had a tough job on his hands. He was protecting Japan and South Korea from communism, while attempting to reshape Japan’s government. He claimed he would fight to keep communism out of South Korea as he would if it was California (history.net). MacArthur fought not only for the well-being of his own country, but the beloved countries of others as