The , also known as the
Meiji era, is a
Japanese era which extended from September 8, 1868 through July 30, 1912. This period represents the first half of the
Empire of Japan during which Japanese society moved from being an isolated
feudal society to its modern form. Fundamental changes affected its social structure, internal politics, economy, military, and foreign relations. The period corresponded with the reign of
Emperor Meiji after 1868, and lasted until his death in 1912. It was succeeded by the
Taisho period upon the accession of
Emperor Taisho to the throne.