Makino Nobuaki, Japanese politician, 15th Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs (b. 1861)

Count Makino Nobuaki (牧野 伸顕, November 24, 1861 – January 25, 1949) was a profoundly influential Japanese politician and imperial court official who navigated the turbulent waters of Japan's early 20th century. A distinguished figure with a lengthy career in public service, Makino's trajectory saw him serve in key governmental and diplomatic capacities before ascending to one of the most significant advisory roles within the Imperial Court.

Born the second son of Ōkubo Toshimichi, a prominent leader and one of the "Three Great Nobles" of the Meiji Restoration, Makino's lineage placed him at the heart of Japan's modern transformation. His early career was marked by extensive diplomatic postings, including positions in London and Washington D.C., which provided him with a broad international perspective. Later, he held various ministerial portfolios, serving as Minister of Education, Foreign Affairs, and Agriculture and Commerce, establishing himself as a seasoned statesman with a deep understanding of domestic and international affairs.

The Critical Role of Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal

From 1925 to 1935, Count Makino Nobuaki held the prestigious and immensely powerful position of Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal of Japan. This role was far more than a ceremonial title; it positioned him as Emperor Hirohito’s chief confidential counselor on matters of paramount national importance. The Lord Keeper acted as the primary conduit between the government, the military, and the Imperial Throne, offering crucial advice on the monarch’s constitutional position, state affairs, imperial rescripts, and major policy decisions. In this capacity, Makino was instrumental in advising Emperor Hirohito on the delicate balance of imperial authority amidst the burgeoning influence of the military and the rise of ultranationalist sentiments. His counsel directly shaped the Emperor's understanding and engagement with domestic and international crises.

Makino's Influence on Japan's Path to Militarization

Count Makino's tenure as Lord Keeper coincided with a period of escalating militarism in Japan, characterized by the military's growing political power and expansionist ambitions. While often perceived as a moderate voice attempting to preserve the imperial institution and constitutional governance, his actions and advice significantly, albeit sometimes indirectly, contributed to the militarization of Japanese society. His primary influence in this regard stemmed from his critical role in advising Emperor Hirohito concerning the Imperial Army's increasingly aggressive and often unauthorized actions abroad.

Notably, Makino played a pivotal role in the aftermath of the Manchurian Incident of 1931, an event where the Imperial Army unilaterally invaded and occupied Manchuria without the explicit sanction of the civilian government or, initially, the Emperor. As the Emperor's chief advisor, Makino counselled Hirohito on how to respond to these military faits accomplis. His advice, often aimed at preventing a direct confrontation between the throne and the powerful military factions—which could have destabilized the imperial system—led Hirohito to sanction, or at least accept, the Army's actions post-facto. This process of imperial sanction, even if reluctantly given, effectively legitimized military expansionism and emboldened the armed forces, thereby accelerating Japan's descent into a period of aggressive foreign policy and increased domestic militarization.

Continued Influence Through World War II

Despite his official retirement from the position of Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal in 1935, a decision partly influenced by repeated assassination attempts from radical ultranationalists who viewed him as too liberal and an obstacle to their agenda, Count Makino Nobuaki’s influence on the Imperial Court did not wane. He continued to serve as a revered elder statesman (Jūshin), maintaining a close advisory relationship with Emperor Hirohito throughout the entirety of World War II, right up to its conclusion in 1945.

In the final desperate days of the war, Makino's enduring loyalty and wisdom proved crucial. He was among the key advisors who advocated strongly for Japan's surrender, advising the Emperor to accept the Potsdam Declaration. His counsel played a significant part in the ultimate decision to end hostilities, making him a complex figure who influenced both Japan's expansionist policies in the lead-up to the war and its eventual capitulation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Count Makino Nobuaki

Who was Count Makino Nobuaki?

Count Makino Nobuaki was a prominent Japanese politician and imperial court official (1861–1949), best known for his long career in government and diplomacy, and particularly for his role as Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal to Emperor Hirohito. He was the son of Ōkubo Toshimichi, a key figure in the Meiji Restoration, and served as the Emperor's chief confidential advisor during a critical period.

What was the Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal's primary function?

The Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal was the Emperor's chief confidential advisor, holding immense influence over state affairs, constitutional matters, and policymaking. The role acted as a crucial intermediary, guiding the monarch on decisions related to government and military actions, effectively shaping imperial responses to national and international crises.

How did Count Makino contribute to the militarization of Japan?

Makino's contribution to militarization primarily stemmed from his pivotal advice to Emperor Hirohito concerning the Imperial Army's unauthorized aggressive actions, such as the Manchurian Incident. While he often sought to protect the imperial institution, his counsel led the Emperor to sanction military actions post-facto. This imperial legitimization emboldened the military's expansionist agenda, accelerating Japan's path toward increased militarism and aggressive foreign policy.

What was Makino Nobuaki's role during World War II?

Even after his official retirement in 1935 due to political pressures and threats, Count Makino remained a close and trusted advisor to Emperor Hirohito. Throughout World War II, he continued to offer counsel, and significantly, he was a key proponent of Japan's surrender in 1945, advising the Emperor to accept the Potsdam Declaration and bring an end to the conflict.