Question

After World War I, how did Japan gain economic influence in China?

Answer 1

Hint: Japan expanded its policies after World war I particularly in China.The Japanese changed their line of approach from that of imperialism to a more forward approach of international cooperation.

Complete answer: The Qing dynasty fell in China in 1912. This provided a good opportunity for Japan to step into the internal politics of China and expand their activities within the country.However it was difficult for Japan to get the upper hand because of the power play that was being carried out in China by its own people who had their own interests.
Through the Nishihara loans in 1918. Japan continued to extend its privileges in China. These loans were made by the Japanese government to the warlord Duan Qirui in order to pursue Japanese interests in China. These loans were made by private banks which were to be used for the development of China. After World War I,Japan was given land in China. Japan also took control of Chinese industries. The Sino Japanese war resulted in the victory of Japan. This incident led to the loss of prestige of the Qing dynasty.

Note: Japan obtained 200 million silver taels which helped Japan to increase its industrialization. It also took possession of the Taiwan island which became its prime agricultural producer. Under the Treaty of Versailles, Japan received parts of China which were under the control of the Germans.Japan became an equal power along with the rest of the European powers.