Includes bibliographical references (pages [263]-344) and index.
Imperialism in the context of national renovation -- "Divine aid" and the "destiny of Japan": the great war as opportunity -- Imperialism in the service of democracy : Katō Takaaki and the twenty-one demands -- Anticipating a new order in Asia: Yamagata Aritomo, Tanaka Giichi, and an autonomous foreign policy -- Last chance of a opportune war: preempting Woodrow Wilson in Asia -- Versailles in the context of national renovation: Wilson arrives in Japan -- Conclusion -- Epilogue