Early to mid 1920s → more moderate civil politicians → who preferred to advance Japanese interest by peaceful means → were in control of govt policy
- Tried to expand Japanese influence → through trade + international cooperation
- Instead of conquest of territories.
- they also cut military budget
Cut in budget → angered military leaders → felt it showed a lack of respect for military
- Believed that other countries could not be trusted as the latter might go back on the trade if the deals suited them
Extreme military leaders → believed war between Japan and Western powers → esp. US → was inevitable + Japan needed resources of a big empire to fight this war.