My father in law was MacArthurs political advisor immediately after the war initials MWSB. It was largely his work that spared Japans Emperor’s life as he was such a great symbol to the Japanese people. He also assisted in drafting their new constitution. For these activities the Japanese awarded him the 2nd order of the Lotus and the USA matched with the Metal of Freedom .. domo arrigato.
As for these demonstrators, they’re having a great time. Once this new crew of sailors establish themselves on the beach, everyone will be pals again.
“It was largely his work that spared Japans Emperor’s life...”
Okay, I have a question for you: What did your father-in-law do or say to stop the bushido, in great numbers, from committing sepuku?
This is not a hostile question. I’m just really curious. Did he invoke Dr. Suzuki?
Dr. Suzuki and his zen satori philosphy are completely incompatible with the bushido warrior code. Both existed contemporaneously in Japan in WW II. How did gut-slitting (not necessarily your gut) philosophy win out over contemplating one hand clapping?
If you can answer this, it will relieve one of several conundrum headaches I’ve been hauling around in my head for decades.
Your father-in-law must have been an extraordinary man. The occupation and successful reconstruction of Japan has to be one of the greatest achievements of American foreign policy ever. A once hostile nation is now an ally with a free and prosperous population. I would have loved to have had a chance to talk to him about his work.