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The Meiji Restoration was a chain of events that restored practical imperial rule to Japan in 1868 under Emperor Meiji. Although there were Emperors before the Meiji Restoration, the events restored practical abilities and consolidated the political system under the Emperor of Japan.<br/><br/> The goals of the restored government were expressed by the new emperor in the Charter Oath. The Restoration led to enormous changes in Japan's political and social structure. The Meiji period spanned 1868 to 1912 and was responsible for the emergence of Japan as a modernized nation in the early twentieth century.
Guido Herman Fridolin Verbeck (born Verbeek) (28 January 1830 – 10 May 1898) was a Dutch political advisor, educator, and missionary active in Bakumatsu and Meiji period Japan. He was one of the most important o-yatoi gaikokujin (foreign advisors) serving the Meiji government and contributed to many major government decisions during the early years of the reign of Emperor Meiji.
Saigō Takamori, original name Kichibe or Kichinosuke, literary name Nanshu, was one of the most influential samurai in Japanese history. He lived during the late Edo Period and early Meiji Era, and became a leader of the Meiji restoration.<br/><br/> In 1867, Saigo’s troops supported the Emperor in the Meiji Restoration; with Katsu Kaishu, who was the representative of the Shogunate government, he achieved the bloodless surrender of Edo Castle and successfully conducted the coup d’etat of 'Osei Fukko' (Restoration of Imperial rule). He was later put in command of over 50,000 samurai, a large segment of the Imperial army.<br/><br/> As a 'Sangi' (councillor) in the new government, he helped to push through reforms. His participation in the restoration made him a legendary hero, but the same reforms dissolved the samurai system and caused him to lose his status. In 1873, he resigned his government post after losing in the 'Seikanron' (Debate over conquering Korea).<br/><br/> In 1877, with the encouragement of the students of his private school in Kyushu, Saigo organized the Satsuma Rebellion against the government he had helped to restore. He was defeated by the government army and committed suicide. He later became a symbol of devotion to principle.